This model was presented in October 1948 at the Earls Court Motorshow in London. The then-prototype Jaguar XK 120 O.T.S. caused a great sensation. Initially, it was conceived as a test car for the new XK engine, an engine with an aluminum cylinder head, dual overhead camshafts, hemispherical combustion chambers, inclined valves, two S.U. carburetors, and a 3.4-liter displacement. This advanced engine would later be modified to 3.8 liters and then to 4.2 liters, remaining in production until 1992. Taking advantage of the Jaguar MKV chassis and fitting the XK engine, a total of 242 units were built with a fully aluminum body, intended for competitions and to achieve speed records that would help promote the brand. One of the tests was conducted on the Belgian highway in Jabbeke, where the standard version reached 193 km/h, and a version without a windshield reached 213.6 km/h. The XK became the fastest production car in the world at that time.

The public response was so positive, the engine proved sensational, and its style and curves captivated everyone. In 1949, Sir William Lyons, its creator and Jaguar's founder, decided to begin mass production. The two hoods and the doors were still made of aluminum, while the rest of the body was steel. XK was the designation for the new engine, and 120 referred to the speed it could reach in miles per hour.

In 1951, Jaguar introduced the "Special Equipment" version. This version featured a reinforced crankshaft, stiffer rear suspension, dual exhaust pipes, and a lightened flywheel. These modifications increased the vehicle's power from 160 HP to 180 HP. Wire wheels, which gave a more sporty appearance, were also fitted to this version.

In the United States, it was very successful, becoming the favorite car of popular Hollywood actors such as Clark Gable, Errol Flynn, Elizabeth Taylor, Robert Montgomery, Lauren Bacall, Humphrey Bogart, and Ingrid Bergman. This model also enjoyed great success among professional drivers, who achieved numerous victories with it.

Our XK 120 was delivered on June 28, 1951, in Los Angeles, a version with left-hand drive and painted in the original Jaguar color called Suffolk Red. This model is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and beautiful sports cars ever manufactured.

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