1952 Jaguar XK120 ‘Supersonic’ Coupe with coachwork by Carrozzeria Ghia. A rare Jaguar XK120 supplied in bare chassis guise, it was one of two originally ordered by the French Jaguar importer, Royal-Elysees, for a Lyonnaise businessman, a Monsieur Malpelli. This red Supersonic’s blue sister car resides in France, while the whereabouts of the third car are unknown.
This striking car was exhibited at the Paris and London Motor Shows in 1954, and then took part in the Concours d’Elegance competitions in Montreux and Cannes. Following the mysterious disappearance of Monsieur Malpelli, it was retrieved by Royal-Elysees and remained with the company until 1969. The car was later displayed in a French museum dedicated to special-bodied Jaguars. In 1994, it was sold, restored, and won first prize at the 1996 Louise Vuitton Concours in Paris.
Powered by a Jaguar’s 3.4L inline-six, producing around 160-220 hp depending on the tune. The “Supersonic” styling was a sleek, aerodynamic concept inspired by jet-age aesthetics, featuring a long, low silhouette, faired-in headlights, a curved wraparound windshield, and flowing rear fenders.
