One of the world’s rarest cars – the one-of-a-kind 1954 Jaguar XK120 by Pininfarina – is set to be the subject of a restoration demonstration at this year’s Classic & Sports Car Show, which takes place from 28-30 October at Alexandra Palace.
The ’lost’ XK120 – which will be making its first public appearance in 40 years at the event – will be worked on by specialists from Classic Motor Cars, who will give show goers unprecedented access to the techniques and skills that go into bringing a classic car back to its full glory.
The car is believed to have been created for US Importer Max Hoffman, and was displayed at the 1955 Geneva Motor Show. It will be the key focal point in a special restoration hall at the Alexandra Palace show.
Also featured in the hall will be a classic oil station from Total. Experts from the firm will be on hand to recommend the most suitable lubricants for different vehicles.
“As the only XK120 by Pininfarina ever produced this is one of the rarest Jaguars in existence,” said CMC’s Tim Leese. “We are looking forward to bringing this special project to The Classic & Sports Car Show and giving visitors the opportunity to not only watch CMC’s mechanics and technicians at work, but also ask any questions, to really gain a full understanding of the painstaking work that goes into restorations like this.”
Marc Smith, general manager of Total UK Lubricants Division, said: “We have always been committed to providing specialist oils for a wide variety of engines and are keen to bring this expertise to The Classic & Sports Car Show. Our specialists will be on hand to advise classic car owners and talk about lubricant problems that they may have.”
James Elliott, group editor of Classic & Sports Car, said: “We often get to see the before and after images of these incredible restorations, but don’t get to see or fully appreciate the skill that goes into each element, from the body and trim to the engine. We are sure that this, combined with the expertise provided by Total, will make the restoration hall a fascinating and even educational feature for enthusiasts at our event in October.”
The event will also host a live interview stage in partnership with Goodwood Road & Racing, an auction by London-based Coys and an incredible series of live parades, plus a stellar multi-million pound display of supercars highlighting a century of development.
