2015-11-14 01:29:51 | Reno writes:

the car is on auction: classiccars.brightwells.com/viewdetails.php

Description:

This particular Roadster was made in 1956 for the all-important American market which so dominated luxury British car production in the post-war decade. Remarkably it was owned by just one Kentucky-based family from 1962 until earlier this year and the vendor states that the 30,600 miles on the clock is believed to be genuine.

Imported back to the UK in July this year with all duties paid, it remains in exceptionally sound and original condition structurally thanks to over five decades of very light use in the benign climate of Kentucky where sub-zero temperatures are rare and the roads are never salted. The red interior has perhaps been partially retrimmed at some time as the seats are vinyl although the dashboard is leather (a popular option on export cars where the standard wooden dash would not last long in hotter climates, especially in a Roadster).

A desirable Special Equipment model (or MC as the SE was known in the States) with the 'S' engine number suffix, it thus benefits from the C-Type head which boosted power to 210bhp. Thicker torsion bars, a twin-exhaust system and wire wheels were also part of the MC package which cost an additional $295. It still retains its original chassis/engine combination making it a 'matching numbers' machine.

Since arrival in the UK it has been treated to a gentle recommissioning including a full brake overhaul with new cylinders, flexi pipes and master cylinder; a new fuel tank, fuel pump and sender; and an overhaul of the carburettors. Said to drive beautifully, it certainly went well when we were treated to a short test drive with a notably sweet gear-change and one of the smoothest, quietest XK engines we have experienced.

Although the black paintwork is now long past its best, the car is perfectly usable as is and could be easily improved over time as desired, or converted to right-hand drive if preferred using a kit of parts readily available from specialists. It comes with a hood and tonneau cover, both in good condition, plus a spare wheel, wheel-changing kit and original grease gun.

Documentation includes a US Certificate of Title, evidence to show that all duties have been paid and NOVA correspondence confirming the reference number as 16P765879. A Heritage Certificate has been applied for and should be with the car in time for the sale, as should a letter from a representative of the former Kentucky owners confirming that they owned it for over 50 years and that the indicated mileage is genuine.

With top examples of the XK140 Roadster now fetching in excess of £120k at auction, this low-mileage, exceptionally sound, matching numbers, Special Equipment model from long-term ownership, should amply reward the remedial works now required. One of William Lyons' most beautiful designs, it will certainly turn heads wherever it goes and looks excellent value at the sensible guide price suggested.

2015-11-21 19:45:57 | pauls writes:

Lot number 137
Wednesday 25th November 2015
Estimate £59,000 - £64,000
Description Jaguar XK140 SE Roadster
Registration N/A
Year 1956
Colour Black
Engine size 3,442 cc
Chassis No. S812544
Engine No. G7853-8S
Documents US Certificate of Title; Heritage Certificate; import documents; NOVA reference

AMENDMENT: Please note that the vendor advises that the steering on this car will need attention before it is used on the road.

2015-12-13 11:40:28 | Patrick writes:

The car is currently under mechanical and technical refit in France. A complete new painting will follow early 2016 in order to have the car on swiss roads next summer.

2016-01-02 22:46:46 | pauls writes:

Hammer value £54,000