1956 Jaguar XK 140 FHC

1956 JAGUAR XK 140 FHC RHD - ONE of 843 PRODUCED

CHASSIS N. 804.638 DN

ENGINE 6856-8

CAPACITY 3442cc

OWNERS only 3 owners since imported in Italy in early 70’ies

INTERIOR Original red Connolly leather

OUTSIDE Pacific Blue

NOTE

JAGUAR XK 140 FHC OVERDRIVE 1956

Rare model, one of only 843 produced.

The 1956 Jaguar XK 140 FHC Overdrive represents the elegant and high-performance evolution of the legendary XK series.

Produced on February 29, 1956, this vehicle was delivered to the Cyril Williams dealership on March 14 of the same year, then entrusted to its first owner, Charles Attwood from Wolverhampton, and registered with the plate RUK177.

History and Restoration

In 1976, the car was imported into Italy, still bearing its original British registration.

On April 19, 1980, it was registered by its first Italian owner with the plate TO U79517.

A year later, on April 11, 1981, it passed to the second owner, who retained the original Modena plates (MO532558) from that era. In 2008, due to the advanced age of its third owner (born in 1938), the car was reluctantly transferred to Cristiano Luzzago’s collection.

At the time of purchase, the car still featured its original finish, as documented by photographs taken before the extensive restoration and maintenance work. The most notable interventions included:

Full repainting

Replacement of all seals

Complete overhaul of the braking system

Battery replacement

Installation of a new stainless steel exhaust system

Fitting of Michelin tires

Cooling system maintenance

Fuel pump replacement

Tank refurbishment

Despite these interventions, the car has never undergone a complete restoration, preserving its original character. The presence of the original green registration booklet and a detailed chronological extract impeccably document the vehicle’s entire history in Italy.

In January 2025, the car was awarded the “JAGUAR HERITAGE TRUST CERTIFICATE,” which certifies the complete originality of its colors and the consistency of all chassis and engine numbers, confirming its status as a collector’s piece.

Technical Features and Details

The FHC (Fixed Head Coupe) model stands out for its refined design and the exclusivity stemming from its limited production. Equipped with an inline six-cylinder engine, the XK 140 offers a perfect blend of sporty performance and classic British elegance. The overdrive gearbox allows for high cruising speeds with ease, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive.

Other key highlights include:

Suspension and Brakes: Expertly tuned suspension and a comprehensive braking system provide exceptional handling and prompt response in every situation.

Original Details: The original Connolly leather seats, fine wood trim, and authentic chrome details underscore the craftsmanship invested in the model.

Technical Components: The cooling system, stainless steel exhaust, fuel pump, and refurbished tank, along with Michelin tires, complete a package that ensures reliability and long-lasting performance.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Jaguar XK 140 FHC Overdrive is renowned for its extremely enjoyable driving experience. Its overdrive gearbox enables sustained high cruising speeds with minimal effort, making it ideal for long journeys. The combination of a powerful engine, well-tuned suspension, and meticulous maintenance makes this car a true gem for vintage car enthusiasts, merging sporty performance with refined comfort.