1951 Jaguar XK120

XK120 image

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The Jaguar XK120 is a two-door sports car, released in 1948 by the iconic British motor company, Jaguar. Originally intended as a limited-production model, the XK120 proved so popular that it was produced until 1954. The XK120 was named after its top speed of 120 miles per hour, making it the fastest production car of its time.

The 1951 Jaguar XK120 is powered by a 3.4-liter, inline six-cylinder engine that produced 160 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. The engine was equipped with dual overhead camshafts and twin SU carburetors. It had a four-speed manual transmission and a helical-cut, synchromesh gearbox. Additionally, the engine was fitted with a hemispherical cylinder head which helped to increase its power output.

The body of the XK120 was made of aluminum on a steel frame, with a a long hood and a short tail design. The car's overall length is 177 inches with a 102-inch wheelbase, and its ground clearance is 6.5 inches. The curb weight of the 1951 model year is approximately 2,600 pounds, which allowed for quick acceleration on the track.

The suspension system for the XK120 consisted of double wishbones and coil springs at the front, with a solid rear axle and semi-elliptic leaf springs for the rear. The car was also equipped with hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels, which provided excellent stopping power. With its quick acceleration and agile handling, the XK120 was a favorite among sports car enthusiasts and racers alike.

The interior of the 1951 Jaguar XK120 is characterized by handcrafted wooden finishes and a simple, streamlined instrument panel. The leather seats feature abundant padding and are surprisingly roomy for a two-seater sports car. The car's adjustable steering wheel and dash-mounted gear lever provided for an exceptional driving experience.

In terms of performance, the 1951 XK120 had a top speed of 124 mph, and it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 10 seconds. The car's handling is smooth and precise, thanks to its advanced suspension and steering system. Overall, the Jaguar XK120 was a revolutionary car in its time, and it remains a nostalgic icon of the British sports car industry today.

Milestones

- The Jaguar XK120 is officially introduced at the 1948 London Motor Show - Production of the XK120 begins in 1949 - In 1950, a more powerful 3.4 liter engine is introduced, increasing the car's top speed to over 120 mph - In 1951, the XK120 set a new land speed record for a production car, reaching 132.6 mph at the Jabbeke highway in Belgium - The XK120 Drophead Coupe variant is introduced in 1953, featuring a folding fabric roof - Production of the XK120 ends in 1954, with a total of 12,055 units produced.


Technical

- Engine: 3.4-liter inline-six - Horsepower: 160 hp - Top speed: 120 mph - Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 9 seconds - Transmission: Four-speed manual with overdrive - Suspension: Independent front suspension, semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear - Steering: Rack and pinion - Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels - Weight: 2,900 lbs - Wheelbase: 102 inches - Dimensions: 172 inches long, 64 inches wide, 52 inches tall - Body style: Two-seater convertible - Fuel capacity: 17.5 gallons

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