2024 marks the 70th anniversary of one of Britain’s most iconic classics, and a model we are asked about frequently due to our background in Jaguar restoration – the Jaguar XK140.
First launched in 1954, the car has legendary status both for its appeal to collectors, with just under 9000 vehicles produced, as well as its racing history adding to Jaguar’s motorsport success. For such an important anniversary, we wanted to celebrate all things XK140 and look at some of the options to consider for a Jaguar restoration.
CONTINUING THE JAGUAR LEGACY
This model was the second under the XK name, and despite only being in production for three years (1954 – 1957), it has become a legendary model coveted by many classic collectors – it is always something we look forward to working on when someone says they need help with a Jaguar restoration.
The Jaguar XK140 was available in three body styles – the roadster, the fixed-head coupe and drophead coupe. It featured a 3.4 litre inline-six engine, which produced 190hp, with an option to boost to 210hp through the ‘MC’ performance package. This clocked a top speed of around 120mph, with a 0-60mph acceleration of 8.4 seconds, dependent on the model.
DIFFERENCES FROM ITS JAGUAR XK120 PREDECESSOR
Compared to the 120, the 140 had more interior space, with more legroom thanks to the repositioning of the engine and firewall. It also had rack-and-pinion steering and improved brakes.
The design touches marked it out as a distinctive new model for the brand, with more substantial bumpers – complete with flashing turn signals (operated by a switch on the dash) above the front bumper. It also had a thicker radiator grille, as well as chrome strips running down the centre.
CONTINUING THE MODEL THROUGH JAGUAR RESTORATION
After 70 years, the Jaguar XK140 is considered a valuable collector’s item, and can demand a high price on the market. As Jaguar restoration specialists, we see the full range of possibilities of getting these cars back to their former glory, including upgrades where appropriate to make the cars comfortable, usable and fit for modern roads – without taking away any of the car’s character or value.
A bolt on evaporator sits unobtrusively under the main console, and the compressor is driven off the crankshaft requiring slight repositioning of the alternator. This system allows the car to be driven in all conditions, using fully re-circulated air giving for high-performing cooling, with fan speed and temperature controls.
For example, we have expertise in heating and air conditioning that can be transferred into a Jaguar XK140 through an under dash mounted system, a popular upgrade in Jaguar restoration.
Tested in all climates, the XK system ensures comfortable air temperatures on the hottest of days. The problems of excessive heat soak are well known, even on a roadster when driving on sunny days often requires the roof to be up to prevent sun burn.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT A JAGUAR RESTORATION
This is just one example of how a restoration or upgrade can help you get the most out of your classic. If you want to talk to one of our classic car experts about the options for your vehicle, from any make or model, get in touch.