The Jaguar XK 140 MC was top of the line in 1955. Special Equipment models, designated as M and MC, were fitted with wire wheels and Lucas FT576 foglamps mounted above the front bumper. The MC was a particularly desirable spec as it also came equipped with the C-Type cylinder head developed for the 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning racecar, increasing output to 210 horsepower at 5,750 rpm. The C-Type head featured a dual exhaust system which used two separate silencers with pipes running through holes in the chassis crossmembers and emerging below the rear overrider.

This XK 140 MC OTS (open two-seater) was originally supplied through Jaguar Cars New York, having left the factory on 4 April 1955. It featured a 210-horsepower engine with a C-Type-style “Le Mans” cylinder head, dual exhaust, and a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Built with left-hand-drive for the American market, this car was originally finished in the outstanding color combination of Lavender Grey over a Suede Green leather interior featuring Biscuit piping. It was dispatched on 14 April 1955 to the prominent West Coast distributor Charles Hornburg in Los Angeles.

According to a prior owner, the car was discovered as a solid project vehicle in Fort Worth, Texas, where it had been tucked away out of sight for 35 years. It subsequently underwent a two-year restoration and is now finished in deep blue over a stellar red leather interior with blue piping, complemented by a handsome set of polished wire wheels. The present owner acquired the car in early 2007, where it has remained within a distinguished and significant collection for the last 18 years.

During that time, it has been subtly upgraded with dual fuel pumps and other small drivability improvements, making it more suitable for use on today’s roads. Notably, the XK retains its numbers-matching engine block, cylinder head, and svelte roadster body, as confirmed by the accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate. While within the consignor’s collection, it has been faithfully and routinely maintained by a private mechanic.

A beautiful example of the XK 140 in its hottest roadgoing form, this roadster has much to recommend it for the enthusiast of fine British sports cars.