Jaguar XK120
The Jaguar XK120 was Jaguar's first post-war sports car, succeeding the SS 100, which had production ended in 1940. Introduced to the 1948 London Motor Show as a testbed and show car for the new Jaguar XK engine, the XK120 was to become a sensation. Its name, ‘XK120’, referenced its remarkable top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), making it the world's fastest production car at that time.
Two convertible versions were made available; the OTS (Open Two-Seater) Roadster and the DHC (Drophead Coupé). A FHC (Fixed-Head Coupé) version was added from 1951. In all cases, the cars featured alloy cylinder head and twin side draft SU carburetors, and had an impressive dual overhead-cam 3.4 L straight-6 XK engine. Early hand-built models had bodies constructed from aluminum on an ash frames, whilst later mass-produced models featured pressed-steel bodies with aluminum doors, bonnet, and boot lid.
The roadster featured a lightweight canvas top and detachable sidescreens, and a barchetta-style door with an interior pull-cord. The drophead coupé had a padded canvas top which folded onto the rear deck. Both models had a recirculating-ball steering and telescopically adjustable steering column, independent torsion bar front suspension, semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear, as well as all-round drum brakes. Optional Alfin brake drums were available due to the drum brakes' tendency to fade.
In addition, the XK120 was available in a Special Equipment (or SE) version (called the M version in the United States) with increased power, stiffer suspension, dual exhaust system, and optional wire wheels.
Check out our selection of Jaguar XK120 1948 memorabilia! Get your hands on posters, mouse pads, t-shirts, and calendars to show off your enthusiasm for the classic car. Make a statement and add some automotive style to your walls today!
