BF Classified: 1956 Jaguar XK140 FHC

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: Sharon, Massachusetts
• Mileage: 35,500 Shown
• Chassis #: A815380BW
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 3.8-Liter E-Type DOHC Inline-6
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

A small-block Chevrolet once occupied the engine bay of this 1956 Jaguar XK140 Coupe. An extensive restoration returned it to Jaguar power, but with a welcome performance upgrade: a 1964 E-Type 3.8-liter twin-cam six. Completed in 2023, this handsome driver is located in Sharon, Massachusetts, and is offered as a Barn Finds Classified for $58,500.

The restoration reportedly began around 2018 and continued for approximately five years. The previous owner replaced the Chevrolet V8, refurbished the E-Type cylinder head, and rebuilt the four-speed gearbox, generator, oil pump, and gauges. The work also included new brake lines, a stainless-steel fuel tank, a stainless dual exhaust, Wilwood front disc brakes, renewed interior trim, rechromed components, and refinished wire wheels. More than $50,000 in receipts and supporting literature are included.

The body was reportedly solid apart from a rusted spare-tire well, which was replaced with a used panel. Its glossy Blue Angels Dark Blue finish isn’t a factory Jaguar shade and has a few minor blemishes, including two small areas of clear-coat peeling. The underside is said to remain clean, with only scattered surface corrosion. Rechromed wire wheels carry 185HR16 Vredestein Sprint Classic tires displaying 2017 date codes.

The tan leather interior may be this Jaguar’s strongest visual feature. Its restoration included new seat and door-panel leather, carpeting, and a burlwood dashboard. The seller states that the gauges, horn, lights, wipers, and heater fan operate correctly. The boot lid closes but doesn’t latch properly, the thick carpeting can interfere with full clutch travel, and there is no spare or factory toolkit. However, the correct jack is present.

The high-compression E-Type engine reportedly produced readings above 155 psi across all six cylinders. It currently breathes through two carburetors and could use some minor tuning to stabilize its idle. A triple-carburetor assembly accompanies the car if the next owner prefers the more dramatic setup. The rebuilt Moss gearbox is said to shift smoothly when the clutch is fully depressed. Its odometer shows 35,570 miles, although the actual total is unknown.

This isn’t a concours contender, but that may make it more enjoyable. It is an attractive, usable XK140 with additional power and enough imperfections that its next owner shouldn’t be afraid to drive it. These are great cars to drive, with lots of power from the stock engine. The larger 3.8-liter should make this an even more impressive driver.