2018-01-13 12:36:09 | pauls writes:

Car listed as sold at:
www.fantasyjunction.com/cars/1841-Jaguar-XK120%20Roadster-3.4%20Litre%206-Cylind ...

Sellers description:
1953 Jaguar XK-120 Roadster
s/n S673572, Engine no. W7443-8S
Cream White with Red Leather

This particular example has a short and sweet tale of exceedingly long term California ownership, fifty seven years to be exact. Sold new in the Bay Area of Northern California, and purchased by the late owner Mr. Kenneth Purchase in 1959, it has remained in his care ever since. When Mr. Purchase bought the car it was black, but it was discovered during the restoration that it was likely dove grey when sold new. At some point in the car's life the cylinder head was changed, but the car retains its original matching numbers engine block. After many years of ownership, the car was in need of restoration, and between 1998 and 2013 a comprehensive overhaul was performed involving nearly every mechanical and cosmetic aspect of this lovely open British sports car.


Bay Area Jaguar authorities Steve Gordon at Vintage Auto Service and David Ferguson at Images Autobody oversaw the restoration, and performed nearly all of the mechanical and cosmetic aspects of the work including the disassembly and reassembly. Mr. Gordon rebuilt the engine including cylinder head, carburetors, wiring loom, differential, installed a newly built 5-speed transmission, clutch assembly, and balanced driveline, and rebuilt the brakes hydraulic systems, relined the shoes, and machined the drums. New shocks were installed, and the suspension was rebuilt with new bushings. The wheel bearings were replaced, and new wire wheels fitted, shod with new tires. The gauges were rebuilt, as was the distributor, and at the same time an electronic ignition system fitted. The cooling system was renewed with a rebuilt radiator and new cooling hoses. A new fuel tank was fitted, with a rebuilt fuel pump. A new starter was also installed. A stainless steel exhaust system replaces the original, and sings a wonderful note under acceleration.

The cosmetic work was performed in large part by Jaguar experts Images Auto Body in Campbell, California- known the world over for their work on high-end Jaguars. The objective was to complete the car to show standards. The chrome work was outsourced to Lodi Chrome, and the upholstery work was done by Cooks Upholstery to include the beautiful beige canvas top and side curtains, and the trunk detailed in red to match the interior. The engine bay and undercarriage are fully and freshly detailed. It is clear from a critical inspection of the underside how this particular car has benefited from being a California car from new. Finished in cream white over red leather, the end result is an exceedingly handsome motorcar indeed.

Today the car has logged just 511 miles since the restoration was completed and still has a fresh presentation. Aside from few scratches on the rear cowl from putting the top up and down, it is nearly without flaw from age or use, above or below. The restoration work was carried out in a fashion faithful to original, with many correct details. Included with this wonderful example is a photo documentary of the restoration process, all invoices pertaining to labor performed and parts purchased, the restored side curtains, a knock off tool, the matching spare wire wheel, and extra floor mats. We welcome inspections to confirm the quality of the restoration work performed.

Please Note: This car is currently titled in California to the engine number of W74438S.