The Jaguar heritage certificate #38872 for this 1950 Jaguar XK120 shows the car dispatched on 9-27-1950, making it one of the first steel bodied XK 120’s in the US.

Restored to exact 1950 factory specifications. No wings vents, studless cam covers, “TEX” hose clamps and Tall carburetor pots. This Jaguar XK120 also has correct factory suede green exterior and interior colors with a French gray hood and was built at the Foles Hill Jaguar factory that predates the Coventry factory.

The 1950 Jaguar XK120 is one of the most iconic sports cars of the post-war era, known for its stunning design, impressive performance, and significant impact on the automotive world. The XK120 was introduced in 1948 at the London Motor Show as a show car for the new Jaguar XK engine. It garnered such a positive response that Jaguar decided to put it into production.

Here’s a detailed overview of the 1950 Jaguar XK120:

Background

• Manufacturer: Jaguar Cars
• Year: 1950
• Model: XK120

Specifications

• Engine: The 1950 Jaguar XK120 is powered by a 3.4-liter (3442 cc) inline six-cylinder engine with twin SU carburetors. This engine produces 160 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production engines of its time.
• Transmission: The car features a four-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels. The gearbox is known for its robust construction and smooth shifting.
• Chassis: The XK120 has a steel body on a wood frame, with an aluminum hood, doors, and trunk lid in the early models. This construction ensures a lightweight and rigid structure, enhancing performance and handling.
• Suspension: The front suspension consists of independent torsion bars, while the rear features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and sporty handling.
• Brakes: The car is equipped with drum brakes on all four wheels, which were standard for the era. These brakes provide adequate stopping power, though not as effective as later disc brakes.

Design and Features

• Body Style: The 1950 Jaguar XK120 is available in several body styles, including a roadster (Open Two Seater, OTS), fixed-head coupe (FHC), and drophead coupe (DHC). The design is characterized by its long hood, flowing fenders, and low-slung profile.
• Design Elements: The car includes distinctive features such as a wide, upright grille, covered rear wheels, and spats (fender skirts) over the rear wheels. The design is both elegant and aerodynamic, contributing to the car’s high-speed capabilities.
• Interior: The interior of the XK120 is luxurious, with leather seats, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and classic instrumentation. The cockpit is designed to offer both comfort and a sporty driving experience, with all controls within easy reach.

Performance

• Speed: The XK120 was named for its top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), making it the fastest production car of its time. This speed was verified in tests, with some models exceeding this figure under optimal conditions.
• Acceleration: The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, thanks to its powerful engine and lightweight construction. This performance was exceptional for the era and contributed to the car’s racing success.
• Handling: The XK120 offers excellent handling characteristics, with precise steering and a balanced chassis. Its suspension setup provides a smooth ride while maintaining agility and responsiveness on winding roads.

Historical Significance

• Racing Success: The Jaguar XK120 enjoyed significant success in motorsport, including wins in rallying and endurance racing. Its performance and reliability made it a favorite among privateer racers and helped establish Jaguar’s reputation in competitive racing.
• Market Impact: The XK120 was aimed at sports car enthusiasts seeking a combination of performance, style, and luxury. Its success helped Jaguar gain a strong foothold in the American market and boosted the company’s international profile.
• Innovative Design: The XK120’s advanced engineering and design set new standards for sports cars. Its combination of performance, elegance, and affordability made it a groundbreaking model in the post-war automotive industry.

Legacy

• Collector's Item: Today, the 1950 Jaguar XK120 is a highly sought-after collectible among vintage car enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical significance, and timeless design make it a valuable addition to any collection.
• Cultural Appreciation: The car is appreciated not only for its performance but also for its contribution to automotive history. It remains an iconic model that represents the golden age of British sports cars.
• Enduring Appeal: The combination of classic aesthetics, powerful performance, and historical significance ensures the XK120’s continued interest and admiration among collectors and automotive historians.

Summary

The 1950 Jaguar XK120 is a quintessential example of post-war British sports car engineering. With its powerful 3.4-liter engine, elegant design, and impressive performance, it stands out as a significant model in the history of Jaguar and the automotive world. The XK120’s legacy in both racing and the broader automotive industry, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of motoring heritage. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1950 Jaguar XK120 in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.

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