Motoring Classics: 1948 Jaguar XK-120 The name Jaguar was used for the first time by the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1935. The firm's production included limousines, convertibles, and sports cars fitted with 1.5-litre, 2.5-litre, and 3.5-litre engines. The most notable vehicle of the period was the 3.5-litre SS 100 model. This was the fastest and most famous pre-war Jaguar, with speeds of 100 mph and acceleration from rest to 60 mph in about 10.5 seconds. During WWII, production shifted to the war effort, of course. After the war, the company's name was changed to Jaguar Cars Ltd. and production resumed. The first Jaguars were produced with the option of left-side driving controls. In 1946, in addition to updating the older models, co-owner William Lyons developed a new sports car, the XK 120, which was inspired by the BMW 328 model and fitted with a six-cylinder x 2 OHC engine with a capacity of 3442 cc. It was released in 1948 at the Earls Court Motor Show. The fastest motorcar available to date, the XK 120 Roadster had a top speed of 120 mph, superb roadholding and styling plus a smooth ride. In 1951 The XK 120 Fixed Head Coupe was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show. This touring car was better trimmed with a veneer dashboard, and wind-up door windows. In 1953 the XK 120 Drophead Coupe was introduced with a fully-trimmed convertible hood. The XK 120 proved to be a super competition car. In 1954 the XK 140 included rack-and-pinion steering, larger bumpers, extra chrome, a cast grill, and 190 hp. The XK 140 also had room for very small children behind the seat. By the turn of the decade, the car was still selling reasonably well on the strength of its reputation, but its design was looking somewhat outdated. Produced ceased in 1961 when it was replaced by the E-Type.