Jaguar XK 140

The Jaguar XK 140 replaced the XK 120 in 1954 and is regarded as an icon of British sports-car engineering. Compared with its predecessor, the engine was moved six centimetres forwards, making the cabin more spacious. The description gives a three-metre distance from the front of the bonnet to the convertible’s windscreen, contributing to its distinctive appearance. Around 9,000 XK 140s were built. The number 140 was associated with top speed in miles per hour, K identified the model series and X indicated an experimental engine.

Technical features included telescopic front shock absorbers and a rigid rear axle with transverse leaf springs. The rear-wheel-drive car used a 3,442 cc petrol inline six with twin camshafts and two carburettors. Output was 190 hp at 5,500 rpm, with peak torque of 284 Nm at 2,500 rpm. Top speed did not exceed 199 km/h, while 0–100 km/h took 9.5 seconds.