The Jaguar XK120 made its mark in the automotive world not only through its advanced technology and engineering, but also through its numerous successes in racing and rallying events. One of the XK120’s earliest victories was in the Daily Express-sponsored One-Hour Production Car Race at Silverstone Circuit in England. Driven by Leslie Johnson, the XK120 took home the first-ever race victory for the model, beating out two other XK120s in the process. The XK120 also made a strong showing at the inaugural Pebble Beach Road Races in 1950, with Phil Hill and Don Parkinson finishing first and second in the event.
But perhaps the most impressive feat for the XK120 was its performance at the Le Mans 24 Hours race. In 1950, three extensively modified XK120s were entered in the race by the Jaguar factory. Johnson, who led the team with co-driver Bert Hadley, held a strong third place for much of the race before being forced to retire due to clutch failure. Despite this setback, the XK120’s strong showing at Le Mans cemented its reputation as a formidable racing machine. The XK120’s successes weren’t limited to circuit racing, either.
The car also made a strong showing in the Mille Miglia, with Johnson taking fifth place and Clemente Biondetti finishing in eighth. This was an outstanding achievement for a production car, with the XK120s being beaten only by Alfa Romeo and Ferrari.
Overall, the Jaguar XK120’s numerous victories in racing and rallying events solidified its status as the fastest car in the world in the 1940s. Its advanced technology and engineering, combined with its impressive performance on the track, made it a standout model in the automotive industry.
Be The Envy Of Gearheads With This Breathtaking Car
The Story of How the Jaguar XK120 Claimed the Title of the World’s Fastest Car During the 1940s