OVERVIEW
The Jaguar XK150S represents the ultimate evolution of the
legendary XK sports car line, combining timeless styling with the
most powerful factory specification offered in the series. This
rare left-hand-drive XK150S Roadster is one of only 846 examples
produced and retains its matching-numbers 3.4-liter DOHC XK engine
and 4-speed manual gearbox with optional overdrive. Finished in the
factory-correct Cream over Red leather with a Black convertible
top, the car has benefited from a meticulous long-term restoration
and recent mechanical servicing by marque specialists, ensuring it
presents beautifully and drives superbly.
HISTORY OF THE XK150 & XK150-S MODELS
Introduced in 1957, the Jaguar XK150 represented the final
evolution of the celebrated XK sports car line that began with the
XK120 in 1948 and continued through the XK140. While retaining the
unmistakable proportions of its predecessors, the XK150
incorporated a number of meaningful stylistic and functional
improvements.
These updates included a one-piece curved windshield, revised
bonnet contours, and cleaner door lines that eliminated the
cut-down doors of earlier models. Fixed Head Coupe variants also
benefited from a windscreen moved forward approximately four
inches, significantly improving ingress and egress. Inside, the
traditional wood dashboard was replaced with a leather-wrapped
fascia, while slimmer door panels increased available cabin
space.
Power initially came from Jaguar's legendary 3.4-liter dual
overhead camshaft XK engine producing 190 horsepower.
Performance-minded buyers could opt for the high-performance "S"
specification, which featured triple SU carburetors, straight-port
cylinder heads, and higher-lift camshafts, raising output to an
impressive 250 horsepower.
A true embodiment of Sir William Lyons' philosophy of "Grace, Space
and Pace," the XK150-particularly in S specification-remains highly
regarded among collectors and long-distance touring enthusiasts
alike.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
According to its accompanying Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust
Certificate, this 1959 Jaguar XK150S 3.4 Roadster was completed on
November 27, 1958, and originally dispatched to Jaguar Cars, New
York. The car retains its factory-correct Cream over Red leather
interior with a Black folding convertible top.
While the earliest ownership history remains undocumented, the car
is known to have spent over 25 years in long-term ownership in San
Antonio, Texas. During this period, the XK150S underwent a
high-quality restoration, evidenced by its vibrant interior,
detailed engine compartment, and meticulously restored
undercarriage. This care was recognized with a JCNA Concours Best
in Class award, which accompanies the vehicle today!
More recently, the XK150S was brought to IT'S ALIVE! in the fall of
2025 for mechanical attention. At that time, the gearbox and
optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive exhibited excessive fluid
leakage. The gearbox was removed and shipped to renowned British
gearbox specialist John Esposito in Connecticut, where it was fully
rebuilt with new seals, gaskets, bearings, and synchronizers before
being returned and reinstalled by our in-house team. Additional
service work included ensuring proper operation of the lighting and
charging systems.
Thoughtful upgrades include an electric cooling fan and aluminum
expansion tank, helping maintain consistent operating temperatures,
and a twin-pipe stainless steel exhaust system, which provides
durability and a crisp, sporting exhaust note. The XK150S was
recently fitted with a fresh set of VREDESTEIN Sprint Classic
185VR16 tires with tubes, mounted on the 60-spoke chrome wire
wheels.
Today, the car performs as beautifully as it presents. It may be
enjoyed immediately as a well-sorted, highly usable classic or
detailed further for concours-level presentation. The five-digit
odometer currently reads 26 miles, likely reflecting distance
accumulated since completion of the restoration.
Accompanying the XK150S is a full complement of tools and
documentation, including the tool roll, jack with ratchet, Thor
hammer, full-size spare wheel and tire, church key, original XK150
Owner's Manual, wiring diagram, JCNA Best in Class award, and
Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate. Reference to the
Heritage Certificate during a thorough inspection confirms that the
engine block, cylinder head, chassis, body, and gearbox all retain
matching numbers.
IT'S ALIVE! is proud to offer this exceptional XK150S Roadster, a
rare and highly collectible left-hand-drive example with a full
complement of matching-numbers components and documentation. From
its long-term ownership and JCNA Best in Class award to the recent
gearbox rebuild and careful attention to mechanical systems, this
car blends provenance, condition, and usability in a way few XK150S
examples can match.
Whether you plan to drive it today or continue its preparation for
concours-level presentation, this Roadster represents one of the
finest opportunities to acquire a distinguished Jaguar XK sports
car. For additional information or to discuss adding this classic
to your collection, please contact us at 314-710-6600 ext. 140 or
email
[email protected].
