Prices fall on Jaguar XK140 Coupé to tempt buyers

We know all XK values are softening sharply but the 140 could be set to weaken significantly. In September Brightwells sold a fully restored EX-USA, matching numbers 1955 SE fhc with comprehensive restoration file, magazine features and bills from XK specialist Twyford Motors for just £34,500. That’s remarkably low and a fraction of the likely resto cost.

Five years ago mint 140 coupés were hovering around the £90,000 barrier so this is an historic low point. It’s simply because Fifties classics are now falling out of favour as older owners give up the hobby and younger enthusiasts prefer easier driving dynamics. The 140, like lots of others of its era, has become a casualty.

Bonhams at the Goodwood Revival only managed £44,166 for a highly competitive and modified ex-le Mans Classic and XK Challenge 1955 fhc complete with FIA papers and a recent magazine feature. And don’t think it’s just a UK trend. Gooding in the US recently sold a mint ’55 MC dhc for only £65k while Beverley Hills Car Club in LA is offering a very tidy and original grey rhd 1955 coupé, still on British plates, for £34,500. The XK120 hasn’t fallen so much because of its landmark status and 150s, while still down, are seen as slightly more glam and desirable. And that leaves lots of opportunities for buyers. A fully restored 140 at less than £40,000 is a howling bargain by anybody’s standards. If you can put up with the period road manners, a sorted, well-restored XK140 at these soft prices is looking like one of the best value Jaguar classics you can buy.