1953 Jaguar XK120 Roadster
Specifications
Configuration: Front-engine, rear wheel drive
Engine: 3,442 cc DOHC inline 6-cylinder engine
Horsepower: 160 hp at 5,000 RPM
Transmission: 4-speed manual
A Little History
During the war years, Jaguar’s factory in Coventry turned out trailers and aircraft components, while Sir William Lyons and his engineering staff continued to work on a new post-war engine.
The XK120 was launched in open two-seater or roadster form at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show as a testbed and show car for the new Jaguar XK engine. It immediately caused a sensation.The ‘120’ in the name referred to the aluminum car’s 120 mph top speed (faster with the windscreen removed), which made it the world’s fastest production car at the time of its launch.
The Design The XK120 was truly gorgeous, featuring a swooping and streamlined design that screamed speed, performance, and sex appeal.
More importantly, it had the performance to back up its breathtaking bodywork. The XK120’s 3.4-liter straight-six engine utilized chain-driven dual overhead camshafts and a hefty crankshaft that carried seven oversize main bearings. Featuring aluminum heads and pistons, the engine produced 160 hp at 5,200 rpm.
Did You Know? This XK120 is currently finished in Carmine Red and Biscuit Connolly leather, a popular combination for this roadster.In 1949, the first production roadster, chassis number 670003, was delivered to Clark Gable.
