Jaguar XK120
In a time of post-war austerity, the XK120 appeared like lightning rod of hope. Its voluptuous lines screamed hollywood glamour at time when rationing was still in force. Clark Gable, Hollywood heart throb owned the first XK120 roadster, for example. Just looking at one now transports you to a time when things were a lot simpler.
WHY YOU WANT ONE: It's obviously beautiful; from the long snout, down that sensuous side and out towards that pert rear, this is a treat for the eyes. It's also a treat for the keen driver, too – its name comes from the fact it could hit 120mph – not bad for 1950. Its 3.4-litre inline six rasps to sixty in around ten seconds and you'll be grinning all the way there – and beyond. Charging through hill and dale in an XK offers a mixture of raw, earnest thrills backed up with meaty power delivery.
It certainly served the car well in competition – it's one of the finest ways you can go historic racing and rallying, and you'll look superb doing it, too.
WHY YOU DON'T: Disc brakes had yet to be invented, so that means the XK120 has drums – these were always susceptible to fade. We'd suggest a disc brake conversion. Then you'll have stopping power in all senses of the phrase.
SUMMING UP: The Jaguar XK120 harks back to a time when everything was possible, when austerity ruled but that light at the end of the tunnel could just about be seen. The car itself is a fantastic, involving experience that is as addictive as the exterior is alluring.