Vehicle Description
1958 Jaguar XK150 Roadster
"The final iteration in the XK series was the XK150, which was
introduced in May 1957 as a 1958 model. Although the chassis was
carried over unchanged from the 140, standard equipment now
included four wheel disc brakes, which was a first for a car built
in series production. Initially, a convertible and fixed head were
the only body choices. Later in 1958, Jaguar added a lighter
roadster version to the lineup. Available in both standard and S
versions, it had a sleeker appearance but still offered roll up
windows. Many considered the XK150 a fast touring car rather than
an out and out sports car, which is supported by the simple fact
that the cars were seldom raced or rallied." Thx Hagerty.com
For consignment, a 1958 Jaguar XK150 showing 23,134 miles but the
true miles are unknown. This is a triple black version with paint,
top, and interior wearing this handsome color. Over four years,
9,395 examples of the XK150 were produced.
Exterior
We all have our favorite British roadsters, but objectively
speaking, the lines of the XK150 are truly stunning and dipped here
in a vat of black ink which only makes the chrome pop in contrast,
from the streamlined grille, the bumper that contours to that
grille, the light rings, and the 16-inch chrome wire wheels. Not to
be outdone, the polished frame of the slender windscreen also
shines and meets vent windows at the corners. The rear is a work of
art with stainless trim creating a mid rib over an ornate plate
surround, a wraparound bumper, two polished tips, and bold chrome
housing on the diminutive tail lights. Swooping front fenders
create a cavernous space to the hood from which the headlights
emerge from dramatic, cylindrical protrusions, while large fog
lights are propped up on the bumper. The canvas black top is in
immaculate condition and its plastic window remains clear. The
paint and brightwork are very nice and the only imperfection we
note is a paint scrape on the inside of the door on the latch
panel.
Interior
Stately door panels in black are smooth and square and unobtrusive
while the black leather seats, where you might expect buckets, is
actually a split bench with cushions designed for comfort more than
sport and visually connected with a pleated filler over the center
hump. There are two seats in the back, but they are more suggestion
than a usable chair, at least for adults and better suited for
storage. A wood rimmed steering wheel connects to the Jaguar hub
with three spokes and the instrument cluster is positioned in the
center, black faced gauges on an aluminum base, handsome, simple,
and elegant. Black carpet surrounds the floor mounted shifter with
a wood handle that shows some patina. The boot is lined with a
vinyl pad and presents cleanly while keeping the black theme
alive.
Drivetrain
Under the hood is a stunning rebuilt 3.4 liter DOHC inline 6
cylinder rated at 190 horsepower and fueled by a 2 SU H6
carburetors. A 4-speed manual rows through the gears and sends
power to the rear axle with a 3.54 ratio. Disc brakes are supplied
front and rear. Visually, a vintage Jaguar engine is about as good
as it gets.
Undercarriage
Clean underneath with minimal surface rust and no errant fluids are
noted. The dual exhaust enters a gleaming pair of stainless steel
mufflers and continues on its shiny way to the tail pipes which
find their way to the back. Suspension includes torsion bars up
front and leaf springs in back.
Drive-Ability
This is to many, the ultimate British roadster. Class mixed with
some performance in an elegant design that almost begs to be posed
in front of a house with columns. For now, it will have to settle
for our mall from the 1980's, but it still looks good! And rides
well in addition, a smooth runner with very nice handling and a
fantastic and understated cabin. During our short loop, we note
that all functions provided operate just as they should. While
Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at
the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions
will be working at the time of your purchase.
According to the book Treasury of Foreign Cars, the new Jaguar XK
150 coupe is the first production car in the world with 4-wheel
disk (sic) brakes. The internet claims otherwise, citing the 1949
Crosley and 1956 Jensen model 541. But we like what the 1957 book
has to say and even though you would not need bragging rights with
this beautiful car, it's still a fun fact. Here's another fact,
this is a true classic in every sense of the word. The Brits own
vintage roadster perfection and it's embodied in this 1958
XK150.
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
