Model history

When the Jaguar XK120 was launched in 1948, it was unique. The new Jaguar sports car brought racing car performance to the road, yet it did so with a level of comfort and sophistication unknown in such a vehicle. The car was intended for limited production only to try out Jaguar’s new twin overhead camshaft engine, designated during design and development by the initials ‘XK’. The pioneering XK120 was succeeded by the XK140 in 1954. Essentially the same concept, the XK140s were themselves superseded in 1957 by the XK150s.

The method of construction of the XK150 was very similar of the 140, but most panels were rather different in shape. The most obvious change was the considerable straightening of the wing line. The appearance was modernized significantly by the adoption of a one-piece windscreen and the wider bonnet made it far easier to work on the engine. While the XK150 was a little old-fashioned in the late fifties with its separate chassis and live rear axle, performance was gradually boosted. The car benefitted from the real advantage and prestige of having new disc brakes.

The Jaguar XK150 was produced in 3 body configurations: as a Open Two-Seater (OTS), a Fixed-Head Coupé (FHC) and as a Drophead Coupé (DHC). Initially two versions of the XK engine were available, and later several more. The XK150 Roadster was introduced 10 months after the other models, in March 1958.

The appeal of XK’s today is probably based on such intangibles as nostalgia and style, but they can be very practical cars. The performance, even by today’s standards, is highly respectable.

This example

This specific Jaguar XK 150 3.4 Litre Fixed Head Coupe was manufactured at 19 August 1958 and dispatched on 3 September 1958 to Jaguar Cars, New York, USA. The first owner was Mr. Charleston who lived in South Carolina. According to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, this car was originally finished in black with a red interior. The powerful 3.4 litre 6-cylinder engine is matching number.

In 2001 the car was exported to the Netherlands. It has been partly restored and shows a very clean chassis an nice straight bodywork with a little older paintwork. The current Dutch owner bought the Jaguar in 2009 from its second Dutch owner. In 2012 the car had a big service at a specialist (15.000 euro) and a Tremec 5-speed gearbox was installed. The car had a few services since. In the more recent past the car was carefully parked at the owner’s garage which shows many rally and touring plates.

This XK 150 benefits from a 5-speed gearbox, 16 inch chrome wire-wheels, electric power steering and adjustable seats while the original gearbox (matching number) and seat parts are with the car. If preferred, the power steering can be removed.

Original left hand drive example. The car is valued for insurance at 90.000 euro and comes with several invoices, some nice magazines and a maintenance & service handbook.

This uprated XK 150 is a delight to drive with the easy handling, easy gear change and nice and powerful 3.4 Litre engine.

Price is euro 79.500,- Dutch registered.

Very Superior Old Cars is a classic sportscar consultancy company founded in 1992. We work for our customers to assist with all aspects of their car interests. From acquisition consultancy with restoration advice and management to private sales in our boutique art gallery.

VSOC is centrally located between Amsterdam and The Hague, only 17 km (11 miles) from Schiphol Airport. There is a broad selection of classic sports cars on display, in very good or excellent condition, varying from beautiful yet affordable sports cars to rare and valuable collectors’ items. When you intend to visit us in The Netherlands, we would advise you to make an appointment so that we can give you some quality time. If you arrive by plane or train, we would be happy to pick you up at the airport or train station. Besides Dutch we speak English, German, French and Italian.