Description
Jaguar XK140 3.4 Coupe | 1956
Highlights:
– Rare left-hand drive example sold new in Sweden
– Long-term ownership of 32 years
– Older restoration still presenting well inside and out
– 3.4-litre straight-six with manual transmission
The seller offers for sale a 1956 Jaguar XK140 Fixed Head Coupe, finished in a distinctive beige tone and retaining the elegant lines that have made the XK series an icon. This example was sold new in Sweden and remains a left-hand drive vehicle. It has had the same owner for the past 32 years, suggesting a well-cared-for and cherished classic.
Under the bonnet lies Jaguar’s proven 3.4-litre inline-six engine, paired with a manual gearbox. Major functions, including lighting and indicators, operate correctly. The car holds a valid inspection.
The XK140 represents a bridge between Jaguar’s pioneering XK120 and the more refined XK150. It offered subtle but important upgrades in comfort and drivability, while retaining the classic performance character of its predecessor. This model featured improved suspension geometry and rack-and-pinion steering. Though performance enhancements were modest, handling and usability were markedly improved over the XK120.
The bodywork and paint, though restored some time ago, remain in good condition. The seller reports no need for any bodywork or repainting. Chrome elements, window trim, and the coupe’s elegant proportions all appear to have been preserved with care. The original restoration still holds up well visually and structurally.
The interior, also part of the older restoration, is intact and in good condition. The leather upholstery, dashboard, and switchgear show minimal wear. There are no reported faults or missing components, offering a complete and period-correct cabin. The overall condition suggests that the car has been maintained with care, likely stored indoors and not subjected to heavy driving or harsh climates.
Jaguar launched the XK140 in 1954 as a successor to the groundbreaking XK120. While the XK120 stunned the post-war world with its speed and curves, the XK140 refined the formula. Externally, it retained the classic long bonnet and low roofline but added subtle changes like full-width bumpers and improved seating positions. Mechanically, it offered enhancements to the engine cooling system, better brakes, and optional overdrive and automatic transmissions.
The Fixed Head Coupe (FHC) variant, such as this one, was considered the most elegant and practical of the XK140 range. It featured a fixed roofline that added structural rigidity, making it ideal for touring and long-distance driving. The 3.4-litre engine was capable of propelling the car to speeds over 190 km/h, an impressive figure in the 1950s. The XK140 remains highly respected today among classic car collectors and Jaguar enthusiasts for its balance of style, performance, and engineering pedigree.
Left-hand drive XK140s sold new in continental Europe are rare, and long-term ownership adds an additional layer of provenance. This example represents a well-maintained and usable collector’s classic – ideal for shows, touring, or as a standout piece in a Jaguar collection.
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 Skåne county, Sweden.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Swedish 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.
