1950 Jaguar XK120 Roadster

Gaswerks Garage is proud to present this early-production 1950 Jaguar XK120 Roadster, finished in its factory-correct Black over a newly trimmed Biscuit leather interior with red piping. Built on July 20, 1950 and dispatched on July 31, 1950 to famed New York importer Max Hoffman, this XK120 is documented by Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate No. 11582 and is believed to be the 327th left-hand-drive steel-bodied XK120 produced.

The Jaguar Heritage Certificate records the car as originally finished in Black with a Biscuit and red-piped interior and a black hood. It further documents the original engine as W1763-8, along with body number F1646 and gearbox number JH3617. The car retains its original 3.4-liter XK inline-six engine, which has been rebuilt by Gaswerks Garage and has accumulated approximately 165 miles since completion.

The XK120 was introduced in 1948 and became one of the defining sports cars of the postwar era. Its designation referenced Jaguar's claimed 120-mph top speed, remarkable performance for a production automobile of the period. Early examples are distinguished by numerous details carried over from the initial aluminum-bodied cars, several of which remain present on this July 1950 example.

Among its early-production features are twin SU H6 carburetors, early-style cylinder-head and ignition details, black-finished engine compartment panels, a chrome bonnet stay, cast five-blade aluminum cooling fan, and the absence of a factory heater. The car also retains the correct early Marston Excelsior radiator with its short water outlet and no provision for a starter crank, a configuration associated with XK120 chassis numbers 670071 through 670682.

Additional period-correct exterior details include Lucas PF770 headlamps, black rear-fender beading, the early short-style hood with fixed rear window, and chrome hood sticks. As expected for an XK120 produced this early, the body does not incorporate the footwell vents or windscreen washer equipment introduced on later cars. The boot is also correctly finished in black.

The interior has recently been retrimmed in proper English Biscuit leather with contrasting red piping and is accompanied by new carpeting and carpeted floor mats. The car retains its original wheels and hubcaps, along with an original spare wheel, jack, tool kit, books, and extensive documentation concerning its early-production specifications and restoration.

Gaswerks Garage has thoroughly gone through the car with an emphasis on improving reliability and drivability while retaining its vintage character. The original-style four-speed gearbox has been replaced with a fully synchronized five-speed manual transmission incorporating an overdrive fifth gear, allowing more relaxed operation at modern cruising speeds. Five new Pirelli Stella Bianca tires provide a period-correct appearance with modern construction.

The braking system has been overhauled and upgraded with front disc brakes. The cooling system was refreshed and supplemented by an electric auxiliary fan, while a stainless-steel exhaust system and muffler were installed for durability. Lap belts have also been fitted.

Extensive research accompanied the restoration, with period details compared against the Jaguar XK120 Third Edition Judge's Guide, factory service and parts literature, and respected XK120 reference publications. The objective was to preserve the numerous details unique to these very early steel-bodied cars while creating an XK120 that can be enjoyed with greater confidence on today's roads.

Combining documented early XK120 provenance, its original 3.4-liter engine, factory-correct Black and Biscuit color combination, extensive period-correct detailing, and thoughtfully selected drivability upgrades, this 1950 Jaguar XK120 Roadster presents an appealing opportunity to experience one of Britain's most important postwar sports cars.