1953 Jaguar XK120 Drop Head Coupe

Highlights

• One of only 295 right-hand drive Drop Head Coupés ever produced
• Comprehensively restored over many years, completed in 2014, with thorough documentation
• Matching numbers throughout, apart from the gearbox upgrade
• In current ownership since 2014, purchased via renowned XK specialist Twyford Moors
• Accompanied by service history from both the previous and current owner

The Appeal

The XK120 Drop Head Coupe is the most elegant of the XK120's lineage, combining the open-air thrill of the roadster with the refinement of a proper windscreen, wind-up windows and a lined hood. With just 295 right-hand drive examples ever built, it is also comfortably the rarest, and a good example is guaranteed to be clamoured for by any enthusiast.

This 1953 car is a particularly compelling proposition. Matching numbers throughout - save for a sympathetic gearbox upgrade - it was the subject of a comprehensive and meticulously documented restoration by its previous long-term owner, who acquired the car in 1984 and completed the work in 2014. Finished in its original colour scheme of black over red leather, it was subsequently purchased by the current owner through Twyford Moors, one of the UK's foremost XK specialists, and has been enjoyed extensively ever since, covering long road trips across Britain and Ireland.

It's not all resting on laurels, though - this handsome car has been upgraded with front disc brakes, a five-speed Getrag gearbox, 123 ignition and an alternator conversion, all of which make for a much more usable day-to-day classic, while the original Moss gearbox is included in the sale for the purist. The vendor reports that it's a real pleasure to drive, with a fine exhaust note.
Always garaged and carefully maintained, this sleek mid-century classic comes to market with reassuring documentation spanning decades of careful stewardship.

History and Paperwork

• Registered in 1953 in the United Kingdom
• Previous owner purchased the car in 1984 and undertook a comprehensive, thoroughly documented restoration completed in 2014
• Current owner since 2014, purchased via Twyford Moors
• Original Moss gearbox included with the car
• Service history from both the previous owner (including the restoration) and the current owner
• MOT exempt
• 47,611 miles indicated

The Condition

• Always garaged
• Restored to its original colour scheme: black bodywork and hood with red upholstery
• Paintwork is generally very good with some minor, easily treatable imperfections
• The vendor describes the wire wheels as being in very good condition; recent Vredestein Sprint tyres on the front and Blockleys on the rear, all with plenty of tread
• Hood is in good condition; tonneau needs a small repair but is fully functional
• The vendor describes the chrome as being in very good order all round
• Glass and seals are all reported to be in good condition
• Red leather seats and walnut veneer dashboard, both in very good condition
• All dials, switches and controls are functional, though the indicator self-cancel needs attention
• Carpets, including the boot and headlining, are in good condition
• Seat belts are colour-matched and fitted with period-style buckles

With slicked-back styling and a distinctive, flowing form from bumper-to-bumper, the XK120 is a deeply handsome car. This example is a perfect ambassador to the lineage, with bright chrome, a lovely, rich gloss to the paintwork and a well-kept interior. It's clear that everything has been given a fine eye for detail, and following the 2014 restoration, it's still in grand condition - distinguished, well-kept and eminently drivable.

The Mechanics

• 3,400cc straight-six engine
• Five-speed manual gearbox (Getrag upgrade; original Moss gearbox included)
• The vendor reports the car starts easily and runs very well
• Does drip oil after a run but not enough to require constant topping up
• The vendor describes the car as a real pleasure to drive

Upgrades include:

• Front disc brakes
• Alternator
• 123 ignition
• New rear springs
• Onertia seat belts
• LED side, indicator and brake lights

Plenty has been done to upgrade this XK120 for the modern roads, but it's not at the expense of that much-lauded performance. The vendor reports that the car boasts an excellent exhaust note, plenty of charisma and that familiar Jaguar personality. The engine bay is still in smart order, and we understand that the car is now ready and waiting for its lucky new keeper.
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