Beschreibung:

In 1954 the XK120's were superseded by the mechanically updated XK140's fitted with the more powerful 190bhp XK engine which had been used in the Special Equipment 120's. The new models were visually similar to their predecessors differing in external details only. The fixedhead had an extended roof line and together with the drophead Coupé, was given two small extra seats in the rear, suitable for children or adults for a short journey, but they made the XK's a little more practical for the family man. Overdrive was now an optional extra and the car could be ordered with a C-type head in which case power output was increased to 210bhp. The price of the roadster, all but a handful of which were exported, was now £1,127 (plus tax) with Special Equipment versions were known in the States as XK140M's and, when fitted with the C-type head, as MC's. The XK140's maintained the XK's popularity but very few found their way into competition although those that did performed well. Today, many are prepped for competition by such specialists as Guy Broad and Twyford Moors and quite formidable they are too. In 1999, this striking example was completely rebuilt in order to compete in the Carrera Panamericana that year and so designed to complete thousands of miles, at speed and often in inhospitable conditions and to that end, over £60,000 was spent on modifications and competition preparation. Unfortunately 420AVT never took part due to a change in the owner's circumstances and so it remains completely set up for vintage racing and in an unused and ready condition. The body was completely taken apart and rebuilt together with a photographic record. It was then strengthened where necessary and steel panels replaced with lighter aluminium where possible. The 3.8 litre engine was re-built by specialist David Sedge of Maidstone, who, at the time, rated it as one of the best he ever built. A five-speed Getrag gearbox was also added at the same time. Inside the car, the seats are equipped with full harness belts, integral roll cage, ignition cut off, fire extinguisher as well as other standard completion modifications that you would expect. It has raced at Oulton Park as well as a number of other venues and has acquitted itself well. The exterior is finished in British Racing Green with matching wire wheels and knock-off hubs. A quick fill D-Type style alloy fuel filler cap also sits on the rear wing. Under the current ownership, the car has been used purely as a fast road car for high days and holidays with a full-length Webasto sunroof making for an almost alfresco drive.