Vehicle Description
The introduction of the XK150 in 1957 marked the first significant
redesign of the legendary XK line since the XK120 first appeared in
1948. Mechanically, the refinements made on the XK140 carried over
to the new model, with the two cars sharing the same 3.4-liter
twin-cam inline-six, independent front suspension, Salisbury rear
axle, and rack and pinion steering. New for the 150, however, was
Dunlop's four-wheel disc brake system, pioneered by the C-Type and
perfected on the D-Type at Le Mans. While these were indeed
significant improvements, the biggest news was the redesigned body.
Practically since day-one, buyers complained of tight quarters in
the XK. The substantially redesigned XK150 finally put those
complaints to rest thanks to a wider body that translated into a
much roomier cockpit. The new styling was quite different from the
previous models, yet it was unmistakable as a Jaguar while giving
the XK-line a fresh new look for the 1960s. In keeping with
tradition, Jaguar offered XK150 in three body styles: An open
two-seat roadster, drophead coupe, or fixed-head coupe. At first,
it seemed that the XK150 got off to a rough start. A factory fire
in February 1957 delayed production and the marginally heavier
coachwork softened the performance slightly on the earliest
press-fleet cars. Jaguar quickly responded by adding the Special
Equipment package with a revised cylinder head and dual exhaust,
boosting output by 20 to 210 horsepower and 216 ft.lbs of torque.
The option proved so popular that it became, in essence, the
standard XK150 and some experts believe almost no "standard" models
were sold to the general public. Sales soon perked up as buyers
responded well to the modernized styling, improved comfort, and
stellar performance. Produced through early 1961, XK150 sales were
up slightly over the XK140. Ultimately, the XK150 proved to be a
fitting swansong to the legendary XK line, setting the stage for
the arrival of Jaguar's next sensational sports car, the E-Type.
Presented in classic Old English White over a red cockpit, this
1958 Jaguar XK150 OTS is a lovely, well-maintained example and a
veteran of numerous tours in the US and Europe. The Jaguar Daimler
Heritage Trust Certificate shows this car first arrived in the US
in April 1958 with the original owner listed as Harold Holt of St.
Petersburg, Florida. The history picks up again in the early 1990s,
with the car still in Florida and then in the hands of a Mr. P.
O'Connell. He commissioned an extensive, well-detailed restoration
to factory standards. Records show the bulk of the work took place
beginning around 1993, which included a full body restoration, new
interior, restored chrome, and mechanical overhaul. In 1995,
O'Connell sold the car to the most recent owner, who took great
pride in showing and driving the XK150 in JCNA events around the
country in the mid-1990s. Accompanying judging sheets show the car
was a consistent high-scorer during that period, with multiple
99-plus point finishes in JCNA concours competition. With concours
success under his belt, the owner then took to enjoying the XK150
on tours and rallies, accumulating over 25,000 miles of driving
around the United States and in Europe. During his twenty-four
years of ownership, the owner entrusted the highly respected Jaguar
specialists at JK Restorations in Oswego, IL to maintain this XK in
top running condition. Records show a continuous history of regular
service, including an engine rebuild by JK Restorations in 2003.
Today, the XK150 roadster presents in excellent condition, with a
pleasing patina from years of care and on-road enjoyment. The white
paintwork shows well, with a glossy finish on the well-aligned body
panels and just some slight checking beginning to appear. A few
minor stone chips are visible on close inspection, which adds an
appealing character to the car, inviting regular use. Bumpers and
other plated parts are excellent, as are the chrome wire wheels and
Vredestein Sprint Classic radial tires. Red leather trim is
faithful to original specification, and the cockpit features
correct materials and fittings. For the XK150 roadster, Jaguar
finally eschewed the fiddly side curtains in favor of more
practical roll-up glass side windows. The cabin is also
considerably roomier than earlier cars, making the XK150 the
driver's choice for long-distance grand touring. This car's red
leather is in great condition, with moderate creasing on the seats
coming with regular enjoyment on the road and proper, professional
care. Carpets, dash covering, and door panels are all excellent,
and the black canvas top is in good order. Also included is a full
tonneau cover for overnight stops, along with a factory tool kit,
jack, and hammer which accompany the history file. Under-bonnet
presentation is very clean and consistent with a former show car
that since been driven on the road. The pale green paint on the
cylinder head denotes this as a standard 3.4-liter model, and this
car retains its numbers-matching original block and head. Cam
covers and carburetors are nicely polished and detailed with chrome
acorn nuts as original. Twin SU carburetors breathe through the
factory-correct air cleaner housing. Other proper details include
the glass washer bottle, radiator hoses, and wiring loom. This
XK150 OTS is a lovely example that benefits from years of expert
care in the hands of a dedicated enthusiast. Finished in attractive
colors and with the benefit of matching numbers engine, original
tools, and extensive service history, this is the ideal choice for
enthusiastic use on Jaguar Club tours and a wide range of rallies
and road events.