MODEL HISTORY
Introduced in 1954 as the replacement for the XK 120, the Jaguar XK 140 retained the outline of its famous predecessor while adding various refinements and updates. It holds a coveted place in the affections of marque cognoscenti, with many arguing that it's the best of all the XKs thanks to its blend of 120 style and 150 practicality.
Among the external changes was a revised radiator grille with fewer vertical slats, plus more substantial bumpers. The engine was moved forwards and the interior was redesigned in order to give occupants a little extra room, but the two-piece windscreen remained. Mechanical revisions included telescopic dampers in place of lever-arm units, plus rack-and-pinion steering instead of the old recirculating ball set-up.
Beneath the bonnet was the same 3.4-litre engine found in the XK 120, but in a heightened state of tune. The standard XK 140 produced 190bhp, while the SE model gained a cylinder head to C-type specification and was good for 210bhp. The latter was designated XK 140 MC in North America, and it was to this vital market that most XK 140s were exported.
When Karl Ludvigsen tested an XK 140 in the US for Sports Car Illustrated, he concluded: 'This latest revision of a time-tested machine is notably improved in the handling and braking departments, and this, together with its smooth and surging power, make it a delight to drive at high speeds over long distances on fast, winding roads.'
The same three body styles were offered as on the XK 120 - Roadster, Drophead Coupe and Fixed-Head Coupe - with production being split roughly equally between them. In total, 8937 XK 140s were built before it was replaced by the XK 150 in 1957.
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