Jaguar - XK120 (1949)

The Jaguar XK120 is one of the most iconic sports cars of the 1940s, known for its sleek lines and thrilling performance. Launched in 1949, this lightweight machine was instantly celebrated for its ability to reach 90 mph on a straight stretch of road—an unprecedented speed for its era. While you’re probably curious about its current appeal and pricing, let’s dive into what makes the Jaguar XK120 so special, outline its key specs, explore typical depreciation patterns, and compare it to contemporaries. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture—without guessing the exact dollar—about how a Jaguar XK120 price is determined today.

• Manufacturer: Jaguar
• Model: XK120
• Year: 1949 (initial production) – with ongoing builds into the early 1950s
• Engine: 2.0‑liter, 4‑cylinder, inline, side‑by‑side, 4‑valve per cylinder, 80 hp (nominal) – ignition via 12‑volt battery
• Transmission: 4‑speed manual, synchromesh on 2nd–4th gears
• Fuel Type: Petrol (96 octane compatible)
• Drivetrain: Front‑engine, rear‑wheel drive
• Dimensions: Length 1,655 mm; Width 1,270 mm; Height 1,382 mm; Wheelbase 1,233 mm
• Weight: Roughly 910 kg (varies by trim and tyre size)
• Top Speed: 90 mph (145 kph) – record‑setting for its time
• 0‑60 mph: < 6 seconds (estimated based on original dyno data)
• Notable Features: Double‑cascade gearshift lever, full‑depth exhausts, polished aluminium panels

With its well‑balanced chassis and lightweight construction, the XK120’s Jaguar XK120 1949 price should represent a classic‑car baseline hidden behind market conditions, like provenance, mileage, and restoration extent. Modern enthusiasts and collectors often compare the vehicle’s history and condition to that of contemporaries such as the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 or the 1953 Jaguar XK140. This comparison helps illustrate the value and appeal of the XK120 given its storied engineering pedigree.

Depreciation Insight: Jaguar XK120 depreciation Patterns

When a vintage model like the XK120 enters the market, its price shift is heavily influenced by a few key factors:

• Initial depreciation: Typically, a 1949 Jaguar XK120 will lose around 15‑20 % of its theoretical market value in its first year after a complete restoration or certification. This drop mainly accounts for the transition from a fully new body to a thoroughly vetted vintage piece.
• Annual decay thereafter: After the first year, a well‑maintained XK120 usually depreciates at a slower rate of 5‑10 % per year. The rate can accelerate slightly in years where interest among collectors surges—for instance, when a vintage racecar related event surfaces—or slow down during periods of market consolidation.
• Condition and rarity: If the car is in original factory condition (e.g., original paint, untouched pistons, and no significant restorative work), you will see a steadier decline—its overall value staying higher overall. Conversely, heavily altered or restored vehicles sometimes experience a steeper depreciation curve until restoration quality is proven.

Knowing these figures can help you determine whether a Jaguar XK120 price