2016-12-18 23:48:00 | Evan Henderson writes:

we are restoring it for a client

2025-12-21 13:07:42 | pauls writes:

Car was at auction, not sold.

auctions.webbs.co.nz/lot-details/index/catalog/874/lot/316352/1957-Jaguar-XK140- ...

Auction description:

Collectors' Cars, Motorcycles & Automobilia December, Sunday 7 December, 2025

Lot 44 

1957 Jaguar XK140 FHC

unsold Estimate: $130,000 - $150,000

Engine: G88948

Chassis 804791DN

Completed on 6 September 1956 and dispatched to Henlys, London on 1 October, this XK140 was first registered in Coventry on 21 January 1957 and sold new two days later to Dr T.H. Story Wolever. Jaguar’s invoice recorded a tax-free price of £1,185 and delivery via Henlys, who also fitted a chromium luggage rack, wing mirrors, and luggage straps. Wolever, then in the UK training in radiotherapy, toured extensively before exporting the car to the USA later in 1957. Initially based in Michigan, he later moved to Los Angeles, where by the late 1960s the XK140 was his daily transport to Kaiser Permanente hospital. In 1971 Wolever relocated to Christchurch as head of radiotherapy and subsequently shipped the car to New Zealand, registering it locally in November 1975. His son drove it from Auckland to Christchurch, having previously driven it often in Los Angeles. After decades of family ownership, the car was sold in 1984 to Ian Hutchings, remaining unrestored but complete with original tools and paperwork until his passing in 2016. Originally finished in Cream with Biscuit trim and Fawn headlining, it carries a remarkable provenance spanning three continents and nearly seven decades.

While the car retains much of its original character, it has been thoughtfully improved in key areas. The factory 3-speed Moss gearbox was replaced with a Tremec 5-speed unit, custom-modified by Elite Racing Transmissions in the UK specifically for XK140s. This upgrade enhances drivability while maintaining a period-correct appearance. The original drum brakes were also replaced with disc brakes, offering significantly improved stopping power.

At the time of completion, three vehicles were being restored simultaneously for the vendor, making individual invoicing impractical. Mark Paterson of South Air, who oversaw much of the work, is available to confirm the extent of the restoration.

This XK140—with 80,000mi on the odometer—was notably the winner of second place in the ‘Best of British’ category at Ayrburn’s inaugural Classic in 2025. This accolade stands as a testament to this well-sorted example of the model, which blends classic appeal with sensible mechanical enhancements.

Car '804791' is featured in the book 'The Jaguar XK140 in the Southern Hemisphere', a work documenting every XK140 which has ever been in NZ. Written by John Elmgreen, it features a wealth of knowledge, including the excellently detailed history of the car above.

The vehicle will be offered with current WOF and registration

The personalised plate '140FHC' is included with sale.