1954 Jaguar XK 120

The Special Equipment (SE) specification, introduced from mid-1951, offered a focused performance upgrade over the standard XK120. Rather than cosmetic changes, the enhancements were mechanical and designed to sharpen power and response. SE cars received higher-compression cylinder heads and higher-lift camshafts, increasing output from around 160 bhp to approximately 180 bhp. A twin-pipe exhaust replaced the standard single outlet, and wire wheels were commonly specified, improving both brake cooling and aesthetic appeal. Many SE models were also fitted with a lightweight flywheel, allowing the engine to rev more freely, while revised rear springs provided a firmer, more responsive ride. In essence, the SE package delivered an extra 20 horsepower and a more engaging driving character through a combination of uprated engine components, twin exhausts, wire wheels and stiffer suspension.

We are delighted to offer for sale this rare, UK-supplied, matching-numbers Jaguar XK120 SE Roadster. The car spent almost 40 years with a single owner who undertook a restoration between 2004 and 2009. It was also registered with FIVA in preparation for potential European events.

Built on 27th May 1953 and finished in its factory colour of Black, the car was distributed by Ritchies of Glasgow and supplied new by WM Bell & Co. to J Woodrow & Sons in Renfrewshire. Impressively, it still carries its original engine, original colour and original registration number, HHS 104. After spending its early life in Scotland, the car migrated south by the late 1970s to Chichester, West Sussex, where it remained for many years.

An extensive history file contains invoices totalling tens of thousands of pounds from the 2000s alone. During the restoration, the body was removed from the chassis, which was stripped, blasted and treated; the underside presents beautifully. Chrome work is outstanding, with the original brightwork re-chromed by Derby Plating. Painted wire wheels, the car benefits from new weather equipment, including hood, side screens and tonneau. The interior has been retrimmed in high-grade Red leather and continues to present beautifully several years on. The engine bay presents impressively with polished exhaust manifolds.

Thoughtful upgrades enhance both reliability and drivability: Coopercraft front disc brakes with four-pot callipers, an uprated front anti-roll bar, telescopic rear shock absorbers, alternator, Kenlowe fan and a bespoke stainless-steel six-branch exhaust system. The result is an XK120 that drives with well with strong oil pressure, impressive performance, a smooth and satisfying gearbox, precise handling and substantially improved braking.

In September 2025, the current owner invested a further £8,500 preparing the car for sale, including a major service, engine tune and additional works to ensure it is on the button for its next custodian.

This XK120 SE stands out as a rare matching-numbers car, in its original black colour and a home market car. Coupled with carefully chosen upgrades that improve drivability without compromising character, it offers the ideal blend of authenticity, usability and presentation. For anyone seeking a great usable XK120 Roadster, this car is a great opportunity.