Freshly restored; One of the first production XK120 Fixed-head Coupes

William Lyon’s masterpiece needs little introduction. The XK120 was faster than cars twice its price. Immaculately outfitted in leather, wood and wool and so stunningly styled that it was years before the factory could keep up with orders. Performance was truly the equal of anything, as innumerable race victories attest; notably, a Fixed-head Coupe brought Jaguar its first class win at Le Mans since 1935. It even became the only foreign sports car ever to win a NASCAR race.

This Car's Past

No record exists of this car ever having been shown, and was not drivable for many years. Nevertheless, its data plate indicates it retained a matching numbers drivetrain and is now a correct left-hand drive XK120. This will present an excellent opportunity to debut the car in JCNA competition, as well as general eligibility in any show or concours, worldwide.

Hemmings Sports & Exotic Car’s Craig Fitzgerald called the FHC “one of the most distinctive, stunningly proportioned profiles in automotive history.”

History of the Model

Introduced at the 1948 Earl’s Court Motor Show, the only disappointment anyone expressed was that they couldn’t drive the show car off the stand. Car nut, and actor, Clark Gable said, “The general appearance and specifications of the car were enough to make me want it like a child wants candy,” and was the first owner on the West Coast, on his way to having at least three, and maybe four (he eventually ended up with the first production customer car). William Lyons and Jaguar predicted sales in the hundreds, maybe as many as a thousand; in the end they built over 12,000 during a seven-year production run, creating not only an enduring icon, but insuring the financial future of Jaguar in a devastated England rebuilding from war.

Restoration or Preservation History

After languishing for many years, chassis 679117 was fortunate to find its way to noted restorer Steve Helms in Pennsylvania. There, it received a full, correct body-off restoration which included the complete drivetrain. The interior is welcoming with new upholstery and dash and window surround woodwork performed in England. Complete tools and accessories are included, and this very fresh restoration is in ready-to-drive, roadworthy condition, perfect for the summer touring and show season.

“…When requested that I say something about my new Jaguar XK120 I must confess I felt like trying to outdo Webster,” wrote Clark Gable in a story he wrote for the March, 1950, Road and Track. “To call the XK120 ‘my favorite sports car’ is putting it mildly.”

Market Trend / Comparative Analysis

Fixed-head coupes were a third choice after Open two-seat Roadsters and Drop-head Coupes for many years, however, the popularity of touring events has made them a sought-after commodity, particularly since 2013. Fortunately, their values are only beginning to climb, which makes them a strong potential investment; as well as an excellent practical car for weekend getaways and longer tours where there is any possibility of inclement weather. At the same time, Roadster values seem to have peaked and begun a decline over the same two to three year period, indicating there is now considerable ceiling for the FHC.

Summary

With the success of the XK120 Roadster and Drop-head Coupe, it would have been easy for Jaguar to throw a roof on it and watch it sell. Instead, they did the car justice and sculpted a roofline that not only perfectly matched the curves of the body, but enhanced them. Freshly restored by Jaguar specialist Steve Helms and little known in the Jaguar community, it is time for FHC #117 to take its place in the sun.