The fastest production car in the world in 1949. 120 mph from a 3.4-liter six for GBP 988. William Lyons designed it as a short-run showcase for the XK engine, but public demand turned it into Jaguar's first volume sports car.
History
William Lyons intended the XK120 as a limited run of 200 cars to showcase the new XK twin-cam inline-six engine, which was actually designed for the upcoming Mk VII sedan. The car debuted at the 1948 London Motor Show and the reaction was overwhelming.
The XK engine was Jaguar's masterwork: a twin-overhead-cam inline-six with hemispherical combustion chambers producing 160 PS. In a car weighing 1,315 kg, it could reach 120 mph, making the XK120 the fastest production car in the world.
At GBP 988, the XK120 cost a fraction of comparable sports cars. It immediately became the car of choice for amateur racers, Hollywood actors, and anyone who wanted speed and beauty without a Ferrari price tag.
12,055 XK120s were built in roadster, fixed-head coupe, and drophead coupe forms. The car launched Jaguar's sports car dynasty that continued through the C-Type, D-Type, and E-Type.
Values range from GBP 60,000 to GBP 200,000 depending on body style and condition.
Production & Heritage
Value estimates are editorial assessments based on recent auction results and market trends.
Technical Specifications
Engine Details
Performance
Tags
Designed by William Lyons
