Sensuous curves and an aesthetic which tilts more to form rather than practical function are some of the reasons why classic cars like the 1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster still continue to hold sway over our automotive dreams. That said, while the classic design and bodacious bodies of these ageless beauties have withstood the test of time, many of these vintage cars like the XK120 Roadster has obviously lagged in terms of engineering performance.

A classic like the 1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster begs to be driven but if they were driven in today’s urban conditions at factory specifications, its a breakdown and maintenance nightmare waiting to happen. Thankfully, Heritage Motors Cars, is a bespoke car outfit by Jean-Luc Bois of Atelier Parisien Auto dedicated to making sure these original automotive wet-dreams run like they look – gorgeously.

1951 Jaguar XK 120 Roadster OTS LHD – A Classic Upgraded and Meant to Be Driven

When it comes to classic cars with modern engines, there’s certainly a lot of debate on just how much a vintage car can be improved without losing its “soul”. We would like to think that Heritage Motor Car’s 1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster OTS LHD manages to walk that fine line – retaining the sweeping arcs and sensuous lines of the one of the world’s most beloved sports cars of the era but replacing the original heavy-weight steel for more aerodynamically efficient alloy panels.

This 1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster has a body was rebuilt entirely of aluminium, further augmented by an all new 3.8 litre straight six engine modified to output 280 horsepower. Modern electronics permeate the internal workings as well as modern disc brakes for all wheels but the instrumentation panel has been kept decidedly old school, contrasting with the modernist matte gunmetal grey exterior.

The cabin of the updated XK120 Roadster is luxurious yet period authentic thanks to its fresh brown leather interiors and matching dashboard toggles and switches. Assorted heritage details like leather bonnet strap lend credence to the perception of the classic Jaguar Roadster’s pioneering soul without any of the anxiety that comes with driving a vintage beauty of this calibre in modern conditions.

Left Hand Drive Jaguar XK120 Roadster available €165 000 , Heritage Motor Cars, Paris