1955 | Jaguar XK 140 DHC

The Jaguar XK140 Drop Head Coupe (DHC), produced between 1954 and 1957, is a prime example of British automotive craftsmanship. The "DHC" designation refers to the inclusion of a small back seat, designed for occasional passengers. The soft top is engineered with a clever spring mechanism for ease of operation, and its thicker construction—compared to the OTS (Open Two-Seater) version—provides enhanced insulation against sound and weather. Additionally, the DHC features roll-upside windows, offering improved practicality over other models. A total of 8,956 Jaguar XK140 units were manufactured during its production run.

Exterior: This particular Jaguar XK140 is finished in a striking maroon, beautifully complemented by a beige soft top. The car underwent a meticulous restoration around 2019, showcasing flawless bodywork with perfectly aligned panels and even gaps. You will have to look for a long time to find a Jaguar XK140 with better body work than this car. The maroon paintwork gleams in sunlight, giving the vehicle a vibrant, dynamic appearance. The soft top is secured with three buckles and easily folds down, transforming the vehicle into a classic open tourer. Every chrome detail, from the trim to the emblems, has been replaced or restored to the highest standard, enhancing the car's overall appearance. The Jaguar rides on new chrome spoke wheels fitted with Michelin Pilote X tires, regarded as the premier choice for classic cars of this era. Importantly, the undercarriage is just as immaculate as the exterior.

Interior: The cabin of this 1955 Jaguar XK140 is a testament to its high-quality restoration. The interior features new walnut wood panels, and the beige leather seats and door panels are beautifully matched with top-quality beige carpeting. The spacious cockpit ensures comfort for even taller drivers, while the Smiths instruments are elegantly arranged in the center of the dashboard. On warmer days, the side vents provide refreshing airflow to the footwells, adding to the car’s usability.

Mechanical: Powered by a robust 3.4-liter straight-six engine, this Jaguar XK140 performs exceptionally well. The car's four-speed manual gearbox, coupled with overdrive, allows the car to cruise comfortably and relaxed at 110 km/h. Recent mechanical updates include a new wiring harness to ensure the electrical systems function flawlessly. The large drum brakes are in excellent working order, and the fuel tank has been replaced with a lightweight aluminum version, preventing future corrosion issues.

History: Originally dispatched from Jaguar on October 27, 1955, this XK140 was sold to Mr. Scott Peterson in Los Angeles, California. The car later returned to the Netherlands, where it underwent a comprehensive restoration by the renowned Houtkamp Collection, completed around 2019. It was registered in Sweden for the first time in 2020 and has had one owner since. The vehicle comes with its original jack, spare tire, and a detailed history file, including a Jaguar Heritage Certificate confirming its matching numbers status.

These images cannot make the quality of this car justice. If you're searching for one of the finest examples of a Jaguar XK140 DHC on the market, this meticulously restored classic is a top contender. It offers a blend of elegance, performance, and history that is hard to match.