Twin SU H6 Carburetors (XK140), Twin SU HD6 Carburetors (XK140 SE/MC)
Carburetors Xk150:
Twin SU HD6 Carburetors (XK150 3.4), Triple SU HD8 Carburetors (XK150 3.8/3.8S)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (or Leaded Gasoline of equivalent octane)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type Xk120 Xk140:
4-Speed Manual
Optional
Type Xk140:
Laycock de Normanville Overdrive (Optional on some models)
Type Xk150:
4-Speed Manual with or without Overdrive
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios will be detailed within the manual for each model and transmission variant.
Fluid Requirements
Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Open Two-Seater (OTS), Fixed Head Coupé (FHC), Drophead Coupé (DHC)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Kg:
XK120 OTS: ~1330 kg (2932 lbs), XK140 FHC: ~1450 kg (3197 lbs), XK150 FHC: ~1500 kg (3307 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety Era:
Designed to 1950s/1960s safety standards; modern crash ratings are not applicable.
Active Features
Braking System:
Hydraulic Drum Brakes (front and rear) on early models, optional Disc Brakes on XK150.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Not standard equipment on early models; can be retrofitted.
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with steel body panels.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Entertainment System:
Basic AM radio (optional on early models); later models may have updated units. Primarily a driver-focused experience.
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
None in the modern sense. Relies on driver skill and direct mechanical feedback.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
None.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, but the manual will provide specific factory recommendations.
Grease Points Interval:
Frequent lubrication required for chassis and suspension components (e.g., every 500-1000 miles).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 recommended for many conditions. Manual will specify exact grade.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with distilled water (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific system requirements).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Bushings, kingpins, clutch components, water pump, oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal), dashboard wiring insulation degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
Due to age, wiring can become brittle and connections can corrode, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Engine Cooling:
Overheating can occur if cooling system is not meticulously maintained; original radiators may be less efficient.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
United Kingdom
Model Evolution
Lineage:
Successor to the pre-war SS Jaguar 100 and successor to the XK150 was the E-Type.
Production
Production Years Xk120:
1948-1954
Production Years Xk140:
1954-1957
Production Years Xk150:
1957-1961
Notable Variants:
XK120 Competition, XK140 SE/MC, XK150 S
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Significance:
The Jaguar XK series is celebrated as a pinnacle of post-war British sports car design and performance, often considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
Ratings
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible and sought-after by classic car enthusiasts worldwide.