While most customizers of the 1950s took up torch and lead against domestic 1950s bruisers, a few did apply those same methods to European cars, as San Jose resident Joe Wilhelm did with this 1955 Jaguar XK-140. While many of the modifications might not have held up well to our modern aesthetics (or, possibly, even to 1950s aesthetics), the Jag remains a showcase of alternative thinking from more than half a century ago. From the seller’s description:
The XK 140 MC is a beautiful example of mid century custom design and performance. The Royal’s long and colorful history begins when it was imported to the US in 1955, where it campaigned in 6 road races before being sold to Andy Anderson. Anderson’s goal was to modify the vehicle to create the best of both worlds, a show car and drag racer.
The engine was rebuilt by John Thompson of Paxton products, who arranged to use the jaguar as the prototype for a Paxton supercharger installation for Jaguars. The result, 312hp and 14.9 seconds in the quarter mile.
The body was created by the legendary metal shaper Joe Wilhelm in San Jose, California. Modifications include: Chopped top, one piece windshield, re-shaped and extended roof, glass sunroof, smoothed and shaved panels, extended hood and fender “catwalks”, handmade oval front grille, Marchal Optique Lemans headlights and driving lights frenched into the front fenders, bumpers replaced with nerf bars, cut away and teardrop reshaped fenders w/ polished chrome inserts, smoothed deck lid, filled fender seams, rear fascia extended, complemented by chrome wire wheels, chrome brake drums, and 12 coats Metallic purple and clear lacquer.
The Royale’s beautiful interior includes a custom wood dash and instruments, high quality sound system, and plush black leather interior. Chrome plated tools included.
This fine automobile showed and placed in multiple Concours events in the late fifties, including two consecutive invitations to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It was Stored in the early sixties untouched, until 2004 when it was discovered. The Jaguar Royal is an example of the great design, craftsmanship, and performance of yesteryear, when Pebble Beach was “An automobile style show.”
VERY WELL PRESERVED!
Extensive and fully documented history.
Sub 15 second quarter mile.
Original Joe Wilhelm bodywork and paint.
Genuine 50’s Pebble Beach Concours winner.
Only 6,700 miles!
See more Jaguars for sale on Hemmings.com.