3,400cc DOHC 6-Cylinder Engine
Dual SU Carburetors
250bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
Independent Front Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Dunlop Disk Brakes

*Powerful and rare S specification model
*Overdrive equipped
*Desirable roadster coachwork
*The most refined of the original XKs

THE JAGUAR XK150S

What would turn out to be the final glorious incarnation of Jaguar's fabulous 'XK' series of sports cars arrived in 1957. As its nomenclature suggests, the XK150 was a progressive development of the XK120 and XK140, retaining the same basic chassis, 3.4-liter engine and four-speed Moss transmission of its predecessors while benefiting from a new, wider body that provided increased interior space and improved visibility courtesy of a single-piece wrap-around windscreen, replacing the XK140's divided screen. Cleverly, the new body used many XK120/140 pressings, the increased width being achieved by means of a 4"-wide central fillet. A higher front wing line and broader radiator grille were other obvious differences, but the new model's main talking point was its Dunlop disc brakes. Fade following repeated stops from high speed had been a problem of the earlier, drum-braked cars, but now the XK had stopping power to match its prodigious straight-line speed.

Introduced in the spring of 1957, the XK150 was available at first only in fixed and drophead coupé forms, the open roadster version not appearing until the following year. At 190bhp, the engine's maximum power output was identical to that of the XK140 so performance was little changed. 'Special Equipment' and 'S' versions came with 210 and 250bhp respectively, the latter delivering an astonishing 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 136mph. This was achieved by the introduction of the Weslake-developed 'straight-port' cylinder head, high-compression pistons, triple 2" SU carburetors and twin electric fuel pumps.

Overdrive and a Borg-Warner automatic gearbox were the transmission options, the latter becoming an increasingly popular choice, while a Thornton Powr-Lok limited-slip differential was available for the XK150S. Steel wheels remained the standard fitting, though XK150s so equipped are a great rarity, as most were sold in SE (Special Equipment) specification with center-lock wire wheels. The much-admired chromed Jaguar mascot was made available as an optional extra on an XK for the first time.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This XK150s roadster from the first year of production represents the most desirable variant of the XK150 line up. The "S" specification motor pumps out 250hp and the sleek lightweight roadster coachwork this the ultimate combination. With factory overdrive this 150 will happily charge down the road at modern highway speeds. A well-designed top with proper side windows increase their versatility.

Factory finished in Cream over black this 150S was dispatched from the works on September 24, 1958 to Jaguar Cars, New York. Its first owner was Gordon Dillinger.

Acquired by the vendor a score of years ago as a non-running machine, it has been extensively refurbished since being purchased. The body was stripped to bear metal and repainted in the original color, the chrome was replated, and a new interior and top were installed. Mechanical work, completed by Speedwell Engineering in Canton, Georgia, included a new wiring harness, engine tuning, freshened brake rotors and pads, and more. A binder of receipts documents the interior and mechanical work completed. This 150s is a fully numbers matching example that is verified with included Jaguar Heritage Certificate. This Jaguar is offered with an original tool kit and original Jaguar owner's handbook.

XK150s are recognized of one of the most desirable and usable Jags of their era. With potent performance and refined comfort they continue to be some of the most coveted Jaguars. Offered from private ownership this represents excellent value in a premier collector Jaguar.