1950 Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster

1950 Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster: A Racing Legend of the 1950s

The 1950 Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster holds a special place in automotive history as one of the most significant US-ordered XK120s in the world. This particular car, the third built for the 1950 model year, was custom ordered as a right-hand-drive (RHD) steel body car with aluminum hood, trunk, and doors, specifically intended for competition use. Its racing pedigree and association with notable figures in the sports car racing scene of the era make it a truly exceptional vehicle.

Owned by John Edgar, an heir to the Hobart restaurant equipment fortune, the car gained prominence when it was raced by the talented driver Jack McAfee in 1952. Edgar was deeply involved in Southern California sports car racing during the 1950s and established a reputation for fielding winning teams with various marques, including MG, Siata, Alfa Romeo, Porsche, Ferrari, and Maserati. McAfee, along with other renowned racing talents such as Carroll Shelby, Phil Hill, and Masten Gregory, piloted Edgar's cars to victory at sports car racing events across the United States.

The RHD Jaguar XK120 was specially ordered by John Edgar from International Motors, the factory-authorized Jaguar dealership on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, California. The owner of International Motors, Roger Barlow, was a close friend of Sir William Lyons, the founder of Jaguar, which likely facilitated the delivery of the car in primer. This fact is confirmed on the Jaguar Heritage Certificate, adding to the car's unique history.

Edgar believed that having the drivers on the right side of the car provided an advantage, as both the B competition cars and the factory competition Ferraris from Italy were also RHD. The car, with the chassis number 660118, went on to win the 1952 Palm Springs Road Race sanctioned by the California Sports Car Club. McAfee's incredible feat during the race further solidified the car's racing legacy. Despite spinning out while leading, McAfee rejoined the race after letting the entire field pass and proceeded to overtake every competitor, ultimately securing victory.

The car continued to compete at prestigious West Coast events, including Torrey Pines, before being sold to Lou Brero, another successful racer of the 1950s. Over the years, it changed hands and eventually ended up in the possession of Bruce Canepa, renowned for his expertise in automotive restoration and preservation. The current owner acquired the car from Canepa Design, ensuring its continued preservation and appreciation.

Following the end of its competitive racing career, the Jaguar XK120 was sparingly used and eventually stored in the mid-1960s. Remarkably, the car has spent its entire life in California and remains in remarkable condition. The aluminum panels show no signs of damage, attesting to the car's careful preservation. With its period racing history, the car stands as a prime example of a vintage Jaguar racer and is considered one of the most important XK120 Competition Car's in existence.

Recently completed restoration work has brought the car back to its former glory, replicating the livery it wore during the Palm Springs race in 1952. Finished in a creme exterior and featuring a stunning two-tone red and beige leather interior upholstered by Bassett Jaguar Interiors, the car exudes the timeless elegance of the era. Aubrey Finburgh, who worked for the Jaguar factory, painstakingly handcrafted the cowling for the racing aero screen and mirror cowling. The engine, modified by Jack McAfee and Phil Hill, is a testament to their expertise, delivering exceptional performance based on feedback from the Jaguar Factory Team.

With its early 1950s California racing history and associations with John Edgar and Jack McAfee, this Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster holds a special place among automotive enthusiasts. Its racing heritage and provenance make it highly sought after and valuable. The car comes with an extensive history file containing letters, receipts, and photographs, providing a fascinating glimpse into its storied past.

Thanks to its significant period racing history, the car is eligible to compete in classic car racing events such as the Mille Miglia, Goodwood, and Le Mans Classic, allowing it to continue its legacy on prestigious international stages. The 1950 Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster is not just a car; it is a symbol of automotive excellence, racing prowess, and a golden era of motorsport that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

Amazingly, we have a Video of this Car winning the 1952 Palm Springs Road Race, please note: this was filmed in 8mm film. Click Here for Video