XK120 &140

John,

Have a look here:

http://www.jag-lovers.org/modern/mguides/jl0193.html

Doug Ingram
Victoria BC Canada
1987 Series III XJ6 VDP

John's description is basic, but to the point. If you saw a roadster next to a drop-head coupe (DHC), you'd readily see the differences. The roadsters on the XK120 and 140 have a split windscreen with a narrow metal frame around them. The top folds down behind the front seats, sort of, and is lightweight and flimsy. The car does not have roll-up windows.

In contrast, the DHC is more like its name implies -- a coupe, but the roof goes down. The windshield, also split down the middle, is surrounded by a very heavy metal frame, painted body color. The top is much heavier and sturdier, and when it folds down, it sits up behind the seats rather than hiding down behind them. The doors are heavier also, as they incorporate roll-up windows like the coupe.

Basically, the roadster looks sportier, the DHC looks more like a touring car. Hope that helps.

Steve Weinstein, JTC-NJ
'70 XKE FHC
'69 XKE OTS

Roadster: rudimentary top, side curtains, spartan interior, water everywhere when you drive in the rain.

DHC: watertight top, rollup windows, interior with real tree wood, dry.