Manufactured between 1949 and 1954, the Jaguar Xk120 is a sports car and was the first post-war sports car from the marque. This model was launched at the 1948 London Motor Show as a test bed and show vehicle to highlight the new Jaguar XK engine. Because of its sudden popularity, William Lyons was persuaded to put the car into the production as the standard model.
The first Jaguar Xk120 models were hand built aluminum bodied cars. Before moving to a more mass production, the company produced approximately 200 of these alloy bodied cars for the sole purpose of meeting the demand for this popular model. There was even a production vehicle version, 1950 with a steel pressed body with alloy doors, cabinet, and turn skin. The Xk engine was highly advanced for a mass reduced engine. It had an alloy cylinder head and twin side draft SU carburetors. Exactly the same fundamental design of the Xk engine was employed in 3.8L and 4.2L versions into the late 1980’s.
The Xk120 was named after its impressive 120 mph (193 km/’h) top speed. It was the world’s fastest standard production vehicle during the time it was launched. It was made available as a coupe -Fixed Head Coupe or FHC, converter -Drop Head Coupe or DHC, or a roadster – Open Top Sports or OTS. The Roadster or OTS had a very light weight canvas top and removable side curtains while the Drop Head Coupe or DHC had a padded top and roll up windows. Actually, the Fixed Head Coupe and the DHC had an elegant wood banner dash.
The Fixed Head Coupe was built in 1953 and finished in silver with a black leather interior. It was actually finished in Baltic grey when first constructed and had a red leather interior. Before its restoration in the United Kingdom, it was first used as a commuter car for a couple of years. In the 1990 – 1992 Pirelli Classic Marathon, this model appeared again as a participant to the event where it earned sixth in class the first year. It however achieved second in class after two years. It was sent back to US in 1994 and prepared for motor sports that included the addition of a roll bar and an engine rebuilt.
For those who still have their Xk120, pride and fame is definitely felt. These cars are rare and limited nowadays, so if you have one, you are a big boy! So keep that Xk120 alive and kicking. Parts Train is helping you to restore and rekindle the beauty of your Xk120. Count on us should you have troubles with your Jaguar. We definitely offer good solutions.
Featured Products
Jaguar XK120 - Seat Belt
"UNIVERSAL 3-POINT RETRACTABLE SEAT BELTS, DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE, SOLD AS PAIR -- This Seat Belt May Require Modification Or Other Adjustments To Your Vehicle Upon Installation, 1-3/4 in. Width x 131 in. Full Extended Length, Comes With Center Push Buckle, Without Air Bag Sensor"
Brand:Replacement
Jaguar XK120 - Oxygen Sensor
"UNIVERSAL OXYGEN SENSOR -- 4 Wires, Quality Construction And Materials Make This Item One Of The Top Selling OE Replacement Oxygen Sensors. This May Require Modification Or Other Adjustments To Your Vehicle Upon Installation, Direct Fit Part "
Brand:Replacement
1949,1950,1951,1952,1953,1954 - 6Cyl 3.4L Base
1952,1953,1954 - 6Cyl 3.4L M
Jaguar XK120 - Seat Belt
"UNIVERSAL 2-POINT SEAT BELT, DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE, SOLD INDIVIDUALLY -- This Seat Belt May Require Modification Or Other Adjustments To Your Vehicle Upon Installation, 1-3/4 in. Width x 54 in. Full Extended Length, Comes With Center Push Buckle"
Brand:Replacement
Jaguar XK120 - Oxygen Sensor
"UNIVERSAL OXYGEN SENSOR -- 3 Wires, Quality Construction And Materials Make This Item One Of The Top Selling OE Replacement Oxygen Sensors. This May Require Modification Or Other Adjustments To Your Vehicle Upon Installation, Direct Fit Part "
Brand:Replacement
Jaguar XK120 - Oxygen Sensor
"UNIVERSAL OXYGEN SENSOR -- 1 Wire, Quality Construction And Materials Make This Item One Of The Top Selling OE Replacement Oxygen Sensors. This May Require Modification Or Other Adjustments To Your Vehicle Upon Installation, Direct Fit Part "
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