The XK140 was introduced in 1954 and was a logical update on the XK120, utilising the same chassis but with a modified body. This created more room internally, and there was also more precise rack and pinion steering, better cooling, and bigger bumpers and stronger cast grille which were aimed mostly at the US market. The most radical change was to the fixed head coupe, which had the bulkhead moved 6” further forward, which, combined with a higher roofline, created a lot more space for driver and passenger, as well as incorporating two vestigial rear seats. There was also a new bigger radiator for more efficient cooling, and an overdrive option for improved driveability. C-Type head option gave welcome performance improvement. All three body styles available from the outset (October 1954).
Pros: Worthwhile mechanical and body improvements bring greater usability to the XK range. Added space particularly useful in drophead and fixedhead models.
Cons: Many feel that the heavier bumpers, cast grille, and added chrome a retrograde step aesthetically. Proportions of 140 fixedhead in particular lost the elegance of 120 predecessor.
XK 140 Open Two-Seater
October 1954 – February 1957
Engine capacity | 3,442cc. |
Bhp | 190 at 5,500rpm (210bhp at 5300 rpm ‘C’ type head) |
Length | 14ft 8in |
Width | 5ft 4 1/2 in |
Height | 4ft 7in |
Weight | 29cwt |
Max. speed | 130mph approx; 0–60 |
mph | 9secs (‘C’ type head, overdrive) |
Distinguishing features: Grille now eight-bar cast alloy, bumpers now full-width front with over-riders; direction indicators in lower front ring; detachable windscreen assembly; sidescreens; cockpit roomier due to engine being moved forward; rack and pinion steering replaces recirculating ball; telescopic dampers replace lever-arm on rear axle. Wire wheels offered with Special Equipment package (‘C’ head additional option). Chassis Nos. commence/numbers built: 817001 LHD (2,310), 807001 RHD (479).
XK 140 Drophead Coupe
October 1954 – February 1957
Engine capacity | 3,442cc. |
Bhp | 190 at 5,500rpm (210bhp at 5300 rpm ‘C’ type head) |
Length | 14ft 8in |
Width | 5ft 4 1/2 in |
Height | 4ft 7in |
Weight | 29cwt |
Max. speed | 125mph approx; 0–60 |
mph | 11.5secs (‘C’ type head, overdrive) |
Distinguishing features: Grille/front wings as for open two-seater; integral windscreen pillars, wind-up windows, exterior door handles, fully lined top, occasional rear seats. Mechanical changes as for open two-seater. Drum brakes. Wire wheels offered with Special Equipment package (‘C’ head additional option). Automatic transmission offered from October 1956. Chassis Nos. commence/numbers built: 817001 LHD (2,310), 807001 RHD (479).
XK 140 Fixedhead Coupe
October 1954 – February 1957
Engine capacity | 3,442cc. |
Bhp | 190 at 5,500rpm (210bhp at 5300 rpm ‘C’ type head) |
Length | 14ft 8in |
Width | 5ft 4 1/2 in |
Height | 4ft 7in |
Weight | 29cwt |
Max. speed | 129mph approx; 0–60 |
mph | 10secs (‘C’ type head, overdrive) |
Distinguishing features: Grille/front wings as for open two-seater; integral steel roof, wind-up windows, exterior door handles, occasional rear seats. Mechanical changes as for open two-seater. Drum brakes. Wire wheels offered with Special Equipment package (‘C’ head additional option). Automatic transmission offered from October 1956. Chassis Nos. commence/numbers built: 814001 LHD (1,965), 804001 RHD (843).