1954 Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupe

This 1954 Jaguar XK140 Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 Christies auction of 'Exceptional Motor Cars at the Monterey Jet Center.' It is black with red leather interior and powered by a six-cylinder engine with twin overhead camshafts and a displacement size of 3442cc. Horsepower is phenomenal at 190. There is a four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

The XK120 was produced for six years and followed by the XK140 which was introduced in October of 1954. It had the same XK shape but brought many new changes such as stronger bumpers and turn signal indicators set into the front fenders. The engine was moved three inches forward in the engine bay allowing more interior room for the driver and passenger. handling was also improved by this three-inch difference.

The engine was given steel, rather than cast-iron, main bearings which helped in coping with the increase in horsepower. The transmission was given closer gear ratios which made significant benefits for the driver. An eight blade fan and larger radiator were adapted to help keep the engine cool.

Exteriorly, a chrome strip could now be found on the vehicles hood and trunk. The vehicles were still available in coupe, roadster and drophead coupe configurations. Top speed was achieved at around 121 mph.

This example spent its early life in California and was originally painted in Pastel Green with a trim of tan piped in biscuit. Currently, the engine which is original to the car, has 'C'-Type cylinder head rocker covers and are believed to be additions made after the vehicle was purchased.

It has been displayed in a museum for a number of years and is also believed to have spent some of its life in Europe. At auction the car was estimated to sell for $60,000 - $120,000. As the gavel fell a buyer had been found, the car had been sold, and $74,800 had exchanged hands, including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2007