1956 Jaguar XK140 Drop Head Coupe

Hilton & Moss are delighted to present to market this exceptional Jaguar XK140 Drop Head Coupe.

One of only 480 right-hand drive Drop Head Coupes (DHC), this example is an original, UK supplied matching numbers vehicle, finished in its factory-specified and highly desirable colour combination of Solid Black with Red leather interior. A rare pairing that remains both elegant and evocative.

Built on 18th January 1956 and delivered via Henlys of London on 12th March the same year, the car retains its original registration, SXK 270, to this day. A detail cherished by marque enthusiasts.

The vehicle underwent a comprehensive restoration by the renowned Fullbridge Carriage Company Ltd in Essex, with works beginning in April 1990 and concluding in April 1992. This restoration has been meticulously documented through period hand-typed invoices, which remain with the car as a wonderful window into the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved.

Accompanying the car is a superb collection of MOT certificates, with every year present from 1992 to 2005, during which time the mileage gradually increased from just 31 to 1,164 miles. Additional MOTs are also included for the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, 2017, and consecutively from 2020 to 2023.

Even 33 years after its restoration, this XK140 remains in remarkable condition as a true testament to both the quality of the original vehicle and the calibre of its restoration. The solid black paint retains a rich, deep lustre; the bodywork is exceptionally straight with consistent panel gaps throughout. The hood fits tautly and remains in superb order, with a clear, fog-free rear window, a detail often lost over time. The chrome is equally impressive, showing only minimal signs of ageing, and is a clear indicator that the chrome was refinished to the highest standards.

Inside, the red leather has gracefully matured, offering a delightful patina, while remaining soft, supportive and beautifully scented. Just as a classic Jaguar should be.

A number of discreet yet effective upgrades have been carried out to enhance drivability, including a stainless-steel exhaust, alloy radiator, uprated cooling fans and four-pot callipers paired with disc brakes. All of which enhance performance and reliability without compromising originality.

The vehicle has undergone a full inspection and service within our Hilton & Moss workshops to ensure it meets our exacting standards. Now, this Jaguar is ready to be enjoyed by its next discerning custodian.

Model History

Introduced in September 1954, the Jaguar XK140 succeeded the hugely successful and iconic XK120. While the XK120 had established itself as a motoring legend, both on the road and track, the XK140 was never intended to follow in its competitive footsteps, with Jaguar’s motorsport focus now firmly placed on the C-Type and the development of the legendary D-Type.

Instead, the XK140 represented an evolution, taking everything that made the XK120 great and refining it further.

Visually, the XK140 retained the clean, flowing lines of its predecessor, maintaining the elegant proportions that had captivated enthusiasts worldwide. However, beneath the surface, the XK140 saw a number of significant mechanical and usability improvements.

The standard engine was more powerful, and the steering system was upgraded to a rack and pinion system, vastly improving response and driver feedback. The ride quality was notably enhanced by replacing the earlier lever-arm dampers with modern telescopic shock absorbers, offering a more composed and comfortable driving experience.

One of the most impactful changes was the repositioning of the engine further forward within the chassis, creating additional legroom and cabin space. This made the XK140 far more accommodating, especially for taller drivers, for whom the XK120 had often proven a tight fit.

Other refinements included a lengthened roofline to accommodate a pair of occasional rear seats, while the windscreen was moved forward to enhance cockpit space. Visually, the XK140 gained full-width bumpers and increased chrome detailing, lending it a more luxurious and upmarket appearance, in keeping with contemporary styling trends of the mid-1950s.

The result was a more civilised, practical, and refined grand tourer. A perfect blend of British elegance and sporting heritage.

The XK140 was available in three body styles;

The Open Two Seater (OTS),

The Drop Head Coupe (DHC)

The Fixed Head Coupe (FHC).