1954 Jaguar XK120 DHC

An original UK right hand drive Jaguar XK120 DHC. In our opinion, the best version of the XK120 given that you have the enjoyment of open top motoring, with the benefit of a proper windscreen and weather-tight hood.

Finished in jet black with a red leather interior, this right-hand drive drophead coupé was first registered on 1st July 1954. Its accompanying Jaguar Heritage Certificate confirms that it was supplied new by Ernest W. Hadfield of Sheffield, appropriately retaining its original Sheffield registration, SWE 750, more than seventy years after it was first registered.

Displaying just four recorded owners from new, the car enjoys an unusually well-documented history. The current custodian originally acquired the Jaguar in 1979 before reluctantly selling it, as a part-completed restoration project, in 2000. Fortuitously, when the interim owner emigrated, the opportunity arose to reacquire the XK in 2002, allowing its restoration to be completed exactly as originally intended.

The restoration was concluded in 2008, the body and chassis were comprehensively restored, with the chassis itself galvanised to ensure long-term preservation. The matching-numbers XK engine was completely rebuilt, incorporating sensible improvements including conversion for unleaded fuel, a modern crankshaft oil seal and full balancing. Equally discreet upgrades include the installation of a later all-synchromesh four-speed gearbox with overdrive and an auxiliary cooling ***, and electronic choke control hidden within the heater switch, enhancing usability whilst preserving the car's unmistakable character.

The suspension and braking systems were restored or renewed throughout, while the elegant hood was crafted by renowned Jaguar specialists Suffolk & Turley, complete with the correct period brightwork and a desirable zip-down rear window. The interior was comprehensively refurbished, with the timber veneers carefully refinished to an exceptionally high standard, complementing the beautifully trimmed red leather cabin.

The accompanying history file reflects the calibre of the restoration, containing invoices from many of the UK's most respected Jaguar specialists, including Derby Platers, Suffolk & Turley, Aldridge Trimming, Derek Watson Engineering, Guy Broad and Longstone Tyres. Together they illustrate both the quality of the work undertaken and the meticulous attention to detail that elevates this XK above many of its contemporaries. Also included are the current V5C registration document, the original buff logbook and an excellent photographic record of the restoration.