The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Jaguar XK120 Roadster Alloy 1950 is a true gem of speed and elegance. This particular model was built during the early post-war years and was designed for high performance driving. Its sleek and sporty exterior is complemented perfectly by the advanced technology of its time that was utilized in its construction.
One of the most impressive features of this vehicle is its lightweight aluminum body. The use of alloy material made for a much stiffer chassis, improving handling at high speeds. The body was hand-formed and finished, which meant that each car was unique and individualized. The streamlined design of the body creates a powerful sense of movement and lends itself perfectly to the high-performance driving for which the XK120 was designed.
Beneath the hood is a 3.4 liter, twin cam engine that delivers 160 horsepower. This advanced engine was the first of its kind to utilize a cast aluminum block and cylinder head, which made it both lighter and more durable. Overall, the engine was highly advanced for its time and helped to establish Jaguar as a major player in the automotive industry in the post-war era.
The transmission is a four-speed manual, synchromesh gearbox that was also among the most advanced of its time. Its precision shifting, combined with the high-performance nature of the engine, gave drivers a true adrenaline rush behind the wheel.
When it comes to suspension, the XK120 Roadster Alloy 1950 also delivers. It features a torsion bar front suspension with telescopic shock absorbers, while the rear suspension is composed of leaf springs and hydraulic dampers. The result is a smooth ride that is both stable and responsive.
Finally, this particular model is equipped with a set of four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. While it may not seem like much, these brakes offer excellent stopping power when combined with the car's light weight and nimble handling.
All in all, the Jaguar XK120 Roadster Alloy 1950 is a car that was incredibly ahead of its time. Its advanced technology, sleek design, and impressive performance make it an instant classic, and one that still turns heads today. Whether you're a fan of vintage sports cars or just appreciate the artistry of automotive engineering, this model is sure to impress.
Milestones
- Introduced in 1948 at the London Motor Show - First car to bear the Jaguar name as a model - Equipped with a 3.4-liter inline-six engine producing 160 horsepower - Achieved a top speed of 132 mph, making it the fastest production car of its time - Roadster body style debuted in 1950, with a lightweight aluminum body replacing the original steel body - Alloy-bodied versions were hand-built and production was limited to 242 units - First British car to complete 100 miles in one hour, set by an XK120 Roadster at the Jabbeke Highway in Belgium in 1953 - Became a popular sports car for racing and rallying, winning numerous awards and races throughout the 1950s - Production ended in 1954, replaced by the XK140 model.Technical
• Body Type: Open two-seater, roadster • Chassis Type: Xk120 • Monocoque, pressed-steel reinforced at stress points • Suspension: Front independent, torsion bars and wishbones • Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs and live axle • Steering: Worm and nut, 3.25 turns lock to lock • Brakes: Lockheed hydraulic drum • Engine: 3.4-liter inline six-cylinder • Bore/Stroke: 83mm/106mm • Compression Ratio: 8:1 • Power Output: 160 hp at 5200 rpm • Transmission: Four-speed manual, synchronous • Top Speed: 130 mph • Production Years: 1948-1954 • Production Numbers: 7,631 (roadsters, coupes, and dropheads) • Weight: 2,874 lb • Fuel tank: 18 gallons • Wheels: Wire, 16 inches in diameter • Tires: 6.00 x 16 • Length: 172.2 inches • Width: 61 inches • Height: 52 inches • Wheelbase: 102 inchesCLASSIC CAR MATCHER