The 1953 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe offers more than vintage style. It carries a story that begins in Beverly Hills and stretches across decades of ownership before finding its way to Europe. With its period-correct details and well-documented care, this car captures both the design language and engineering spirit of its era.
History of the 1953 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe
Delivered new in July 1953 by Coventry Motors in Beverly Hills, this XK120 remained with its first owner until 1987. It then passed to a second long-term caretaker who kept the car for 31 years. During this period, it received a cosmetic refresh in 1994 and a mechanical overhaul in 2014. The car later crossed the Atlantic, arriving in the Netherlands before its most recent ownership began in 2020.
Exterior Details and Condition
Originally finished in Lavender Grey, the body was repainted in Old English White in 1994. The work included installation of a tan convertible top and red boot cover, creating a sharp contrast with the red leather interior. By 2018, the car was further updated with European-market headlights. While its finish still shows age, the XK120 retains defining features like rear wheel spats, split windshield, and fender-mounted mirrors. Rust near the headlights has been noted but does not diminish its overall presence.
Interior Design of the Jaguar XK120
Inside, the 1953 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe was retrimmed in red leather during its 1994 refresh. The cabin combines sport and sophistication with a burl wood dashboard, matching wood trims, and red carpeting. Amenities include roll-up windows, a dash-mounted rearview mirror, and period-style gauges. The Smiths instrumentation remains in place, including a 140-mph speedometer, tachometer with inset clock, and auxiliary dials monitoring vital functions.
Powertrain and Performance of the XK120 Drophead Coupe
Under the bonnet lies the 3.4-liter DOHC inline-six, rebuilt in 2014. Power is delivered through dual SU carburetors, a four-speed manual transmission, and a rear-drive layout. Updates include an aluminum radiator, stainless-steel exhaust, and wiring overhaul. This combination keeps the Jaguar true to its original spirit while benefiting from mechanical reliability. The XK engine was renowned for smooth power delivery, and even today, the setup provides a driving character that blends strength with refinement.
Documentation and Provenance
This 1953 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe comes with strong documentation that reflects its history. Original sales paperwork from Coventry Motors notes its July 11, 1953 purchase price of $4,591.65 and even records a trade-in of a 1948 Studebaker Champion convertible. A Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate confirms its factory specifications and dispatch to Los Angeles in May 1953. Additional service records, literature, spare parts, and export documentation accompany the car.
Summary
The 1953 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe combines a California delivery history, decades of long-term ownership, and a blend of cosmetic and mechanical attention. Finished in Old English White with a red leather interior, it stands today as both a driver’s machine and a piece of automotive heritage with its provenance intact.
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Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
