Jaguar’s XK120 ushered in a new era for the firm, one characterised by wins on Sunday and sales on Monday. Utterly beautiful and as quick as anything else on the road, original cars are sought after and command prices nudging the stratosphere.

For those who admire the XK120 but have slightly less deep pockets, there is the Aristocat by Autotune. It was developed with permission from Jaguar and designed to run on the firm’s more recent running gear, mainly six- or 12-cylinder XJ or XJS. Autotune offered it as a kit that could add in their own personalisation during the construction.

This Aristocat was built by two engineers from the late 1980s to the 2000s using a 1968 Jaguar 420 donor so that they could keep the chassis number as close as possible to the original XK120s. Other running gear came from a 3.4-litre XJ6 saloon. During the build, they made numerous modifications to improve the quality of the finish, particularly around panel fit.

The vendor has invested £4500 over the last 12 months to improve the quality and reliability of this beautifully finished car. Now equipped with a fresh MOT and in great condition, few cars offer the presence and style of this rare Aristocat.

Interior

Biscuit leather interior with evident care taken to recreate XK120 aesthetics

Aristocat kit was 5in wider than XK120 for a more comfortable and spacious interior

Older build with low mileage reflected in the well-kept condition of the cabin

Some light signs of use are visible, including some discolouration and wear to the leather

Two-tone cream and caramel leather reclining sports seats

Contrasting mid-brown carpets in good condition

Jaguar XJ power steering usefully fitted

Four-spoke Moto Lita wood-rimmed wheel replicates XK120 factory item

Classic Jaguar Smiths dials in good, unrestored condition

Full tonneau on matching caramel vinyl supplied and fits correctly

https://www.carandclassic.com/auctions/1968-jaguar-xk120-roadster-by-aristocat-g2RMmg ENDS.