This bespoke Jaguar XK120 restoration was commissioned by renowned British male model and life-long Jaguar enthusiast David Gandy. The 11-month project, a close collaboration between David and Jaguar Classic’s experts at its Classic Works facility in Warwickshire, took 2,700 hours to complete.

Following a brief to make it race-ready for classic motorsport events such as the Jaguar Classic Challenge, the car’s specification is inspired by the original Jaguar XK120 Lightweight.

The in-line six-cylinder XK engine was meticulously rebuilt over five and a half months, with the final objective being to use the car for racing. The result is a considerable performance upgrade from the original 160bhp output to 225bhp with enhanced durability at higher speeds. An all-new, upgraded exhaust system features dual pipes instead of the usual single pipe.

Further improvements include a faster-shifting racing-style gearbox which is more durable under high stress use. Disc brakes with four-pot calipers are fitted at the front while the rear retains original specification drum brakes. The suspension features fully adjustable dampers for fine tuning at competitive events.

Design and finishing touches were created in collaboration with David who chose the colour and materials at every step of the renovation.

The exterior was finished in solid black by applying four coats of paint (13 litres). Additional exterior features include a racing inspired flip-top fuel cap while the original split-screen windscreen has been replaced by twin-aero screens.

The interior is finished in an Aged Saddle tan leather. And the seats feature a bespoke lattice design with the seatbacks finished in aluminium rather than the usual fabric.

Specifications
Engine: 3.4-litre in-line six-cylinder XK engine
Gearbox: Four-speed manual
Power: 225bhp
Top speed: 130mph estimated
Weight: 1,320kg approximately

This car was displayed courtesy of Mr David Gandy from Monday 29th July to Sunday 4th August 2019.