1951 Jaguar XK120 OTS

Jaguar presented the XK120 as a concept car at the British International Motor Show in 1948 to test the new Jaguar engine. Due to the positive reactions, it was decided to put the car into production. The “120” designation in the name referred to the top speed of 120 mph (192 km/ h), making it the fastest production car of its time.

The first versions produced were fitted with an aluminium body, but as demand for the cars increased to such an extent that production had to be sped up, it was decided to make the body out of steel. The rotating parts, such as the doors, the tailgate, and the hood, remained aluminium. Three versions were available to order: the Roadster (also known as OTS, or Open Two-Seater), the Drophead Coupé (DHC), and the coupé (or FHC, Fixed-Head Coupé). The DHC was essentially a more luxurious version of the OTS, which offered little protection against the elements. Exterior door handles were absent; opening was done via a pull cord on the inside. The windshield could be removed and replaced with aerodynamic deflectors. But precisely because the OTS lacks this “luxury,” it is a pure car that is particularly desirable to many enthusiasts.

The XK120 Roadster we are pleased to offer was fully restored in 2019; an extensive photo report is available. A few updates were made for improvement, such as a new stainless-steel fuel tank, aluminium radiators, and a stainless-steel exhaust. The car is in perfect condition, both inside and out. The interior is beautiful and complete, as it should be. And the drive? That is a true sensation. We invite you for a viewing!

This car has a Dutch registration.