My Matchbox 1954 Jaguar XK120 SE

When it comes to classic British cars, Matchbox does a pretty good job.  This is their die-cast rendition of the 1954 Jaguar XK120 SE.  In real life, this classic car would probably cost around $100,000 and--in show condition--it might cost more.  However, I found this version at Dollar Tree for the fantastic price of only $1.

Matchbox 1954 Jaguar XK120SE (front)

This car gives me the chance to enjoy the look of the long sleek bonnet and the curvaceous body.  Unlike many of today's 1:64 scale cars, it has a presence and a quiet dignity that eschews gaudy decals and decoration.  This may well be the classiest Matchbox car remaining in my collection.

Matchbox Jaguar XK120SE

Peering through the windows, I was delighted to find that this model featured the right-hand drive configuration favored in the U.K.  It's a little detail and it's a pleasant surprise. 

Matchbox Jaguar XK120

I've had this car for a long time, check out this Jaguar XK120 photo from five years ago.

Jaguar XK120: The Post-War Jag

Jaguar had intended to resume SS100 production after World War II, but the new era called for a new car.  The marque introduced the Jaguar XK120 in 1948. It featured a more aerodynamic form and more powerful.  The XK series also became a legend on the racing circuit.

Jaguar XK120 - Photo by Jlotman (Rod Hatfield) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

According to Wikipedia, in 1949, a Jaguar XK120 reached a record 132.6 miles per hour in speed runs at raceway in Belgium. It was a fast car for its time. Today, it is popular car among diecast car collectors.