Unveiled at the 1948 London Motor Show, the Jaguar XK120 was an immediate sensation. Originally intended as a limited-run showcase for Jaguar's new dual overhead-cam XK inline-6 engine, overwhelming public demand pushed it into full production. It became the world's fastest production car, with its name reflecting its 120 mph top speed. The first 242 roadsters featured aluminum bodies over an ash frame, after which production switched to more easily produced steel bodies.
Collectors prize the XK120 for its groundbreaking performance and what many consider one of the most beautiful automotive designs of all time. Its success in motorsport, including at Le Mans and the Alpine Rally, adds to its historical importance. The early, hand-built alloy-bodied cars are the most desirable, but the later Fixed Head Coupé (FHC) and Drop Head Coupé (DHC) models offer more practicality and comfort than the spartan Open Two Seater (OTS) roadster.
The XK120 market is well-established, with a wide value range based on body style, condition, and provenance. While the average price sits around $79,000, pristine and historically significant examples, especially alloy-bodied cars, can fetch over $300,000. Project cars are available for much less, but buyers should be aware that restoration costs can easily exceed the value of a finished car.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy of the steel-bodied cars. Pay close attention to the sills, floor pans, chassis outriggers, and the base of the A-pillars.
- The XK engine is robust, but check for low oil pressure when warm and signs of past overheating. A numbers-matching engine is critical for top value.
- Early alloy-bodied cars are extremely valuable but require specialists for body repairs. For steel cars, check panel gaps and use a magnet to find areas of body filler.
- The original Moss 4-speed gearbox lacks synchromesh on first gear and can be slow to shift. Many have been replaced with modern 5-speeds, so confirm which transmission is installed.
- Verify originality with a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate. It confirms the car's original engine, chassis number, body style, and colors.
Prices for the Jaguar XK120 range from around $3,800 for major projects to over $311,000 for top-tier examples.
1,133 Jaguar XK120 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 104 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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