Jaguar XKs: The 1950s Pacesetters from Coventry

The Jaguar XK120 was a sensation at the 1948 London Motor Show, thanks to its stunning appearance and the startling performance on tap from the innovative XK engine. It became the most affordable supercar of the time due to unprecedented consumer demand. Jaguar improved the basic formula to create the XK140 in 1954, cementing the company's reputation as one of the finest sports car manufacturers in the world. Despite a devastating fire in 1957, Jaguar introduced a new model with revolutionary all-round disc brakes from Dunlop. This is the story of all the models from that fascinating era, with rare period images and beautiful color photographs from Marc Vorgers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2018
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The Jaguar XK120 made quite a stir at the 1948 London Motor Show with its breathtaking design and the incredible performance that the innovative XK engine was capable of delivering. While the captivating roadster had initially been designed as a limited-production showcase for the advanced powerplant, unprecedented consumer demand compelled the company to manufacture it in larger quantities, making it the most affordable supercar of its time. In this extensively researched and captivating book, award-winning historian John Nikas delves into the intricate details of the development of the entire XK series, encompassing the Le Mans-winning sports racers and the iconic XK SS. Jaguar was always striving to enhance its growing reputation and improve upon the basic formula, leading to the introduction of the XK140 in 1954. With more space, improved handling, and enhanced performance, the model solidified Jaguar's reputation as one of the preeminent sports car manufacturers in the world. Despite the devastating fire at Browns Lane in 1957, Jaguar managed to introduce a new model later that year, featuring revolutionary all-round disc brakes from Dunlop. These brakes perfectly complemented the vehicle's ability to offer faster acceleration and a higher top speed than ever before. This book tells the story of all the models from that fascinating era, featuring rare period images and stunning color photographs from renowned automotive photographer Marc Vorgers.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 233 x 171 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445673462