I can only imagine what it was like being a veteran in the 1940s and returning to the U.S. with some car brand no one’s heard of. Low and sleek, with flowing lines and powered by a strong inline-six, the Jaguar XK120—one of our AutoHunter Picks for this week—must have been a revelation to many on American streets. It’s the car that single-handedly created America’s love affair with Jaguar, one that was solidified even more with the 1961 XK-E and then the XJ6 sedan in 1968.
Those three vehicles are enough to set Jaguar’s standing in automotive history, so it’s with some sadness that we witness Jaguar struggling in today’s market. Hopefully the designers and engineers find their way (by current appearances, they have their work cut out for them) and are able to continue the rich history that has distinguished this hallowed British brand.
1953 Jaguar XK120 Coupe
When it comes to postwar imports, Jaguar sports cars were the most beautiful. For years, I could never figure out why later ones (XK140 and XK150) didn’t look as nice, and then I determined that the earlier ones had a divided front bumper—a-ha!
The succeeding XK140 was faster, but that full-width bumper ruins the looks IMHO. Though less romantic than the roadster, the Drop-head coupe was rarer. Do you prefer them with skirts?
1910 Buick Model F
We don’t see many Brass Era cars on AutoHunter, but here’s a Buick, one of the stars of the industry at the time. The Standard Catalog of American Cars shows 27,377 Buicks built for 1910, with the Model F being one of the older models in its portfolio.
Power for this touring car comes from a 159ci two-cylinder putting out a robust 22 horsepower. A three-speed transmission with sliding gears certainly is not your three-on-the-tree but nonetheless sounds fun.
1969 Dodge Super Bee Hardtop
I wouldn’t be surprised if this 1969 Super Bee hardtop was ordered for dealer stock because it has the essentials and not much more (plus it’s green): 383 with column automatic, green bench seat, AM radio, and the desirable Rallye instrument cluster.
I can see my 18-year-old self being broke but having enough bread to score one of these, though I’d also see how much more one would cost with the Ramcharger hood and M46 side scoops would be because I’m that kind of sucker.
1968 Ford Mustang California Special
I always thought California Specials were neat. Did you know they were available beyond the borders of California? Did you know that, despite the GT/CS signage, the GT package was not included with the CS?
This one is a fine middle-of-the-road example because it’s powered by the 302-4V, which has a bit more grunt over the popular 289-2V. For you aging cruisers out there, air conditioning is on the option list—check out the Marti Report!
