Description
Jaguar XK 140 DHC SE | 1956
Highlights
- 3.4L, 6-cylinder petrol engine
- Delivered new to Jaguar New York in 1956, owned by the seller since 2009
- Maintained by Jaguar specialists with detailed records
- Features electronic ignition, overdrive gearbox, and H-registration
The seller offers for sale a 1956 Jaguar XK 140 DHC SE, a distinguished drophead coupe with a remarkable provenance. Produced on September 21, 1956, and delivered to Jaguar New York on November 9 of the same year, this example has been in the care of the current owner since 2009. Maintained exclusively by Jaguar specialists, it comes with extensive documentation of servicing and upkeep. Powered by the 3.4L 6-cylinder petrol engine, the car starts without hesitation, emits no smoke, and runs smoothly without unusual noises. Its manual gearbox with overdrive shifts fluidly and remains free from mechanical issues. Additional upgrades include electronic ignition (1-2-3), a C-type cylinder head, protective cavity sealing, underbody protection, and an auxiliary fan. The leather interior shows light patina, wood elements are in fine condition, and instruments function correctly. The paintwork presents well with only minimal traces of use, and the body shows no signs of visible rust or damage.
The roof of this drophead coupe is in good condition, with both the fabric and headliner described as intact. Together they provide a reliable covering that complements the classic lines of this open-top Jaguar.
The Jaguar XK 140 followed the groundbreaking XK 120, offering improved comfort, handling, and refinement. Built between 1954 and 1957, it was available in roadster, fixed-head coupe, and drophead coupe versions, with the DHC providing a versatile open-air experience combined with the elegance of a coupe-like roofline. The XK 140 SE variant featured performance enhancements such as the C-type cylinder head, boosting its appeal among enthusiasts. Admired for its blend of timeless design, sporting performance, and long-distance touring ability, the XK 140 cemented Jaguar’s reputation as a maker of both racing icons and grand touring cars. Today, it remains a sought-after collectible, embodying the spirit of 1950s motoring with its balance of style, engineering, and heritage.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North Rhine-Westphalia state, Germany.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a German registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
