Racing My Jaguars

Jaguar’s XK120 Roadster was introduced at the London Motor Show in the fall of 1948. A year later, cars began to appear on American roads and tracks. They came in three configurations: roadster, convertible and coupe. All three were raced, but most entrants preferred the somewhat lighter roadster version. The first roadster bodies were aluminum, rather than the later steel. One of the earliest aluminum XK120s was owned and campaigned by Phil Hill in California events. He won the 1950 Pebble Beach Cup in it.

The XK120 model was offered for sale until 1954, when it was replaced by the XK140. The 120 roadster did have a top even though it was not apparent when not in use. It hid behind the seats and it took some degree of skill and patience to erect. There were no door windows. Side curtains, which also stowed behind the seats, provided a modicum of protection from the elements.