Vehicle Description
The XK-series put Jaguar on the map as a legitimate sports car maker, one that was capable of producing cars that could match the performance and desirability of machines often costing 3 times as much. The evolution of the XK120, XK140 and XK150 saw subtle improvements to braking, handling, and comfort with each subsequent generation. While the XK140 was largely an evolutionary model, the most drastic changes came with the introduction of the XK150 for 1957. The deep, sweeping curves of the XK120 were gone, replaced with a taller and wider body that allowed for more cockpit room, and a one-piece curved windscreen that was in keeping with modern standards. The slab-sided styling of the XK150 was somewhat less sexy than the 120/140, but it still bore a family resemblance and maintained a certain charm of its own.
Mechanically, the XK150 was similar to the 140 it replaced but added 4-wheel disc brakes and other refinements for improved comfort and drivability. The 3.4 liter XK150 was slower than its predecessor thanks to the heavier body and interior. Jaguar soon rectified the performance deficit in 1958 when they introduced the 3.8L engine, giving the XK150 a welcome boost in power, to 250hp in standard trim or 265hp in “S” trim. Suddenly the XK150 found itself fighting for supremacy with the best sports cars on the market. Very few 3.8L drophead coupes were built making this among the most desirable models of the range.
This spectacular XK150 began as a very solid original example that was in need of restoration. In the process, it was substantially but tastefully modified with the goal of creating one of the best driving XK150s in existence. In addition to a show quality finish with exceptional gaps and bodywork, this XK150 has been further enhanced to make it reliable, fast and easy to handle. Clever engineering has been used throughout this XK150 to make maintain a period correct look, but greatly improve performance. Most notably, the Bill Terry-built, matching numbers 3.8L engine now features a custom fuel injection system. This bespoke system uses Bosch injectors hidden in the original intake manifold, and utilizing the butterfly throttles of the S.U. carburetors for air, making the system nearly invisible to the casual onlooker. Fuel management is handled by a Simple Digital Systems ECU. The original 4-speed overdrive Moss gearbox has been replaced with a modern 5-speed and uprated clutch, though the original numbers matching box is included. Air conditioning is seamlessly integrated into the custom dash, and the condenser is mounted discreetly in the rear of the car, a hot rod trick that keeps the radiator clear and the engine bay tidy. Under hood heat is managed by a custom designed system that extracts hot air through hidden pumps and dumps it out through vents in the front fenders. Other significant upgrades include; variable electric power steering, an alloy radiator, and a modern alternator. Inside, you find more tasteful and exquisitely crafted upgrades. Series 1 E-Type coupe seats have been modified to better fit the XK150 and bolstered with high-density gel inserts. They are upholstered in gorgeous burgundy leather. The burl walnut dash adapted from an XK140 adds an element of warmth to the cabin and a fantastic wood-rimmed Moto-Lita wheel awaits your commands. While the modifications and improvements take this car out of the concours realm, all work has been done a concours-level of quality. This XK150 is beautiful enough to show but ultimately this is a car built for fast, reliable and comfortable touring.
