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CSMA Club Motor Museum and Cottages

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Jaguar XK140

Please select a car...   Austin BantamAustin ChummyAustin CliftonAustin NippyAustin SwallowAustin TaxiBMW 327Jaguar XK140Jaguar MK VMG 1100MG J2MG TDMG YMorris MinorRiley AdelphiRiley KestrelRiley RMD 21/2 litreRover 8 VanStandard 8Sunbeam AlpineVolvo P1800 ES

Why is this Jaguar called the XK140?
XK refers to the legendary range of XK twin overhead camshaft engines. Its predecessor was the XK120 whose top speed was 120mph. However the XK 140 could not actually reach 140mph and was originally referred to as the XK120 Mark 4 by Jaguar before it was launched in 1954.

How different was the XK140 from the XK120?
The styling is similar, but the engine was moved forward by 3ins to create more cabin space. Also the bumpers were larger, the suspension redesigned and more precise rack and pinion steering fitted.

So the XK140 became heavier and slower?
No. Although all these upgrades and weight gains made the XK140 more acceptable to the important American market, fitting a more powerful 180bhp six cylinder 3.4 litre engine meant that the XK140 could still manage 120mph.

Was this XK140 Coupe' the only model?
There were three versions of the XK 140, which remained in production until 1957. As well as this roomy coupe' there was a sporty 'open' model which later became known as the 'roadster' which had no hood, just a tonneau cover for the cockpit. A drophead coupe' was a more civilised version of the roadster with a proper convertible roof and wind-up windows. Like the fixed head coupe' there were some rather tight 'occasional' seats at the back.

The styling is very attractive, why is it so familiar?
Take a look at the BMW 327 in the collection and you will see the resemblance. Although it was never formally admitted at the time, the XK120 was based on the pre-war 327 and 328 BMWs that had streamlined bodywork with faired in headlamps and wings well ahead of their time.

What became of the XK140?
Well in 1957 it became the rather less graceful looking, but otherwise much improved XK150. Disc brakes and more powerful engines meant that in 150S form it could top 135mph. In 1961 the XK150 was succeeded by the revolutionary XKE, better known as the E-type.