The JaguarXK140 was manufactured between 1954 and 1957. Upgrades over its predecessor, the XK120, included better brakes, rack and pinion steering, and modern tube type shock absorbers instead of the older lever arm design. The XK140 name referred to its 140 mph (225 km/h) top speed.
The primary XK140 visual change was the more substantial front and rear bumpers, with large overriders. Another new feature was the provision of modern flashing direction indicators, operated by a separate switch on the dash. Above the grill was the Jaguar mascot, and a chrome strip which extended back over the bonnet. This strip continued down the centre of the boot (trunk) lid, where it contained a red shield with the words 'Winner Le Mans 1951-3' inscribed in gold.