1957 Jaguar XK140 MC Coupe

1957 Jaguar XK140 MC Coupe
s/n S815890, engine no. G9416-8S
White with Red Leather Interior
The Jaguar XK series cars are among the most recognized and appreciated classic sports cars of the 1950’s. These innovative, beautiful, and capable performance cars not only set a high standard in racing, they built Jaguar into a formidable manufacturer of fine touring cars. The first of the series, the XK120 launched with an all-new twin-cam inline-6 cylinder engine, capable of delivering 120 mph performance at a surprisingly affordable price. By 1955, the XK120 became the XK140, offering notable improvements including more legroom, increased horsepower, rack and pinion steering, telescoping shock absorbers, and improved brakes. As before, the coupe, drophead coupe, and roadster versions were available. Jaguar offered a range of performance options including the SE model, which could include the competition-derived “C-Type” cylinder head, designated as the “MC”. The SE (Special Equipment), came with wire wheels, dual exhaust, fog lamps, and larger carburetors, all of which resulted in 20 more horsepower.
This particular car is a matching numbers genuine XK140 MC Coupe, built 6 November 1956 and supplied to Jaguar Cars New York. Originally finished in black with red interior, its first owner, Robert Grant of Tucson, Arizona took delivery of it on 31 December 1956 as a gift for his wife. By 1975, the car had found its way to Florida, where it remained until 2008. The next owner comprehensively restored the car, setting it up for events and tours. During this time, the engine was rebuilt (2010) and all systems were made reliable for road and rally use. The current owner purchased it a few years ago, treating it to a complete driver quality paint job in proper “Old English” white, redoing much of the chrome and trim including the windshield and rear glass chrome trim and other details. At the same time, door and hood fit was improved. A wood-rimmed Moto Lita steering wheel was installed and various interior trim corrected.
This car makes a strong impression cosmetically with the recent paint and improved cosmetics, making it an ideal event car, which one can casually show. The paintwork is attractive overall, with no major flaws and high gloss. The white finish contrasts handsomely with the deep red wire wheels and chrome knock offs. The body is straight and solid with good gaps and panel operation. The passenger door, however does show minor uneven fit along the trailing edge. The chrome varies in condition, from the grille, which exhibits some marks in the center blade, and some light pitting on the headlight trims and taillight castings and various other pieces. The exterior door handles are very nice and recently redone. On balance, the chrome is attractive and glossy showing occasional light scratching but not detracting from the overall appearance. All glass is in very good shape. The leather hood strap, rally clocks on the dash, and absence of front bumper completes a nice rally aesthetic overall. The front bumper is included with the sale as part of the spares.
The interior is in nice shape, with a satisfying and authentic patina to the leather trim. The recently replaced carpets are in very good shape overall and appear to be of the correct wool. The dashboard is in very good shape and is correctly presented with original instruments and wood trim. The wood trim has some hairline cracks but presents well overall with no excessive warping. The headliner, rear seating area, and side panels are all consistent with the rest of the car – tidy and cozy with a charming English ambiance.
The engine compartment presentation is consistent with the condition of the rest of the car being clean, attractive, and presentable, but not highly detailed or freshly restored. The matching numbers engine has some upgrades to the oiling and ignition systems and an electric fan to enhance usability and reliability for events. The trunk is fully trimmed in correct matching red upholstery and is in good shape.
The car runs and drives very well. The engine has been properly tuned for reliability, is without unwarranted valve train or tappet noises, and sounds great from the inside. The elegant wood and leather interior are nicely contrasted by the power and pull when engaging all gears. The chassis and suspension are very well sorted and balance as a nice unit in a range of driving conditions. The brakes are much better than most drum brake cars of this period, with a firm and high pedal. The gearbox shifts easily, adding to the overall driving experience and pleasure one might expect in both casual touring, or higher speed events. It is easy to see the appeal this car offers for lengthy tours. Indeed, the car has proven its worth by participating in the 2009 California Mille and other events in recent years.
This is a great opportunity to acquire a nicely-sorted, genuine, matching numbers XK140MC. This car’s coupe body style and thoughtful event preparation makes it an ideal partner for touring events. The car runs and drives reliably – beckoning the new owner to use it confidently in events like the California Mille, Copper-State, and Run for the Sun. Included in the sale is an extensive package of spare parts, including front bumper, an assortment of internal engine components, wheels and tires, original MC fog lamps, and many other parts. The car also comes with copious notes and invoices to confirm the excellent care, restoration, and improvements that have been lovingly applied to this wonderful car.