2014-12-28 23:22:25 | Reno writes:

car is offered on RM Auction in Paris (4 Feb. 2015):

www.rmauctions.com/lots/lot.cfm

160 bhp, 3,442 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine with dual SU carburettors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with transverse wishbones, elongated torsion bars, and an anti-roll bar, rigid rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and front and rear brakes. Wheelbase: 2,600 mm

• The desirable XK120
• Freshly restored in iconic colours
• Beautiful condition

The modern looks of the XK120 were only matched by the engineering under its skin. Its sturdy box-section chassis featured torsion bar independent front suspension, and its live rear axle rode on long semi-elliptic leaf springs. Brakes were Lockheed hydraulic drum units, with twin leading shoes and a generous 12-inch diameter.

The heart and soul of the new car was a 3,442-cubic centimetre, dual overhead-cam six that had begun life as a two-litre, four-cylinder design. Engineer Harry Weslake had experimented with a number of advanced designs, of which a four-cylinder unit with hemispherical combustion chambers and large main bearings was the most promising. Lyons then directed him to add two more cylinders.

The XK120 was unquestionably one of the finest sports cars of its day, as its chassis provided amazing handling and its engine delivered record-breaking top speed. Factory test driver Ron Sutton drove one to a speed of over 130 mph on a Belgian road, proving that its name was actually an understatement of the car's performance credentials and it was definitely not a marketing exaggeration. Jaguar's 3.4-litre straight-six is perhaps one of the greatest engine designs of all time, and it would prove so successful that the company would retain its basic design for use in their road going cars for nearly 40 years.

The car offered here is finished in the iconic colour combination of Gunmetal Grey over a red leather interior, and it presents beautifully after a total restoration, with shining steel wheels, polished hubs, wing mirrors, rear wing "spats," and other desirable features. The paint and interior appear fresh and crisp, with beautiful, rich leather and dashboard finishes. Although the car is not powered by its original engine, the present engine is correct for the model.

This is a wonderful sporting Jaguar with great character and freshly restored charm.

2015-02-09 12:26:23 | pauls writes:

Sold for €67.200