1955 Jaguar XK140 MC

Newly introduced for 1955, the Jaguar XK140 was broadly similar to, though more refined than, its sensational XK120 predecessor, major engineering changes being confined to the repositioning of the engine 3" further forward, the adoption of rack-and-pinion steering and a larger cockpit for more passenger room and driving comfort. The suspension and brakes remained like the XK120, though with stiffer torsion bars at the front and telescopic shock absorbers replacing lever type at the rear. Outwardly the newcomer was distinguishable by its revised radiator grille, rear lights incorporating flashing indicators, and larger bumpers. The power unit remained Jaguar's wonderful 3.4-litre, twin-cam six, which now produced 190bhp in standard trim. A close-ratio gearbox enabled better use to be made of the increased performance Special Equipment (SE) cars, or the MC as it was called for the 140's, came with overdrive, wire wheels and Lucas fog lamps, and could be ordered with an engine developing 210bhp courtesy of the C-type cylinder head. XK140 performance was well up to the standards set by its exemplary predecessor, contemporary road-tests regularly recording top speed figures in excess of 120mph. The XK140 was the best of all the XK's both drivability wise and looks.