From 1948 to 1954, the brilliant XK 120 established Jaguar at the forefront of sports car manufacturers with its elemental yet graceful lines and impressive performance. While approximately 12,000 XK 120s were ultimately built, it was soon clear that its sound original design could easily be improved and updated. As such, the XK 140 arrived in late 1954 with a comprehensive list of improvements designed to overcome the few shortcomings of its predecessor. The XK 140 provided enhanced performance and passenger comfort to maintain Jaguar’s appeal, particularly in the all-important U.S. market.
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
Notable upgrades included the addition of precise rack and pinion steering, improved braking and cooling, as well as greatly improved cabin comfort and legroom. In particular, the curvaceous Fixed Head Coupe provided 2+2 seating and enhanced luggage room, made possible by the relocation of the batteries. While the basic 102-inch wheelbase remained unchanged, the bodywork was subtly updated, with the classic Jaguar styling elements of the original design remaining largely intact.
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
Fewer than 9,000 XK 140s were manufactured, with reliable estimates placing the production total at 8,943 units over a three-year production run. Like its predecessor, the XK 140 was offered in Open Two Seater, Drophead Coupe and Fixed Head Coupe body styles, with approximately 2,800 Coupes built.
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
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| 1956 Jaguar XK-140 |
210 bhp, 3,442 cc inline six-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts, dual SU H8 carburetors, C-Type cylinder head, four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with double wishbones, coil springs, torsion bars and anti-roll bar, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102″.
Make Jaguar
Model XK140
Year 1956
Engine 3.4L 6-cylinder
Horsepower 210
Source: RM Auctions
Grease n Gasoline 