When the Jaguar XK120 was first introduced in 1948, it was only available in roadster form. Later on, both drop-head coupe (convertible) and fixed-head coupe (FHC) variants were available. This 1954 model was the last year the XK120 was available before being replaced by the XK140. It’s listed for sale here on craigslist and the seller is asking $40,000 or best offer. The car is being sold from Addy, Washington.
It’s said that the coupe model of the XK120 was intended almost purely as an export model, and the fact that many of the right-hand-drive FHC cars were exported in addition to essentially all the left-hand-drive FHC ones bears that out. Featuring roll-up windows and much better weather protection than the roadster, the reputation of the FHC was established in August 1952 when a specially prepared (but stock appearing!) XK120 FHC was taken to the Montlhéry circuit near Paris and was driven for seven days and seven nights straight at an average speed of 100.32 miles per hour, including all stops! Of course, Jaguar made a lot of this feat in their advertising!
The ad states that the car was running and driving three years ago and has a straight frame with “little to now (sic) rust.” The paint looks to be rattle-can, but I don’t think it’s hiding anything horrible.
I was worried when there wasn’t a trunk (boot) lid, but that’s in another picture, and may illustrate the original color of the car (it looks like Old English White to me–what do you think?) One thing I don’t want to forget is to thank T. J. for sending in this great tip!
The interior (what there is of it) doesn’t actually look that bad! Perhaps the wood can even be saved? Unfortunately, it’s hard to tell from the limited pictures how complete the car is, and we don’t even see any shots of the underhood area! Ultimately, I can’t see anyone shelling out $40,000 without an in-person inspection–but considering Hagerty feels a “fair” condition car is worth $62,900 and its value has gone up 21% in the last 12 months–so what do you think? Is this Jaguar worth taking a chance on?
These are beautiful cars but you sure don’t get much for your 40K with this one.
For sure a must see in person. I can’t tell if there is mostly elbow grease needed or a lot of parts.
Can get all needed parts. They do look so very nice once restored. I’m more of a saloon man. For this money you can pick up a very good driver of the same vintage.
Not a line out of place on this classic design.