LOT 258

1959 Jaguar XK150 '3.8' Drophead Coupé Registration no. 648 XVH Chassis no. 5837280BW Engine no. W3560-8

Estimate: £75,000 - £90,000

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Lot 258

1959 Jaguar XK150 '3.8' Drophead Coupé
Registration no. 648 XVH Chassis no. 5837280BW Engine no. W3560-8

Goodwood Festival of Speed: Collector's Motor Cars and Automobilia|9 July 2021, 14:30 BST|Chichester, Goodwood

1959 Jaguar XK150 '3.8' Drophead Coupé
Registration no. 648 XVH
Chassis no. 5837280BW
Engine no. W3560-8

* Meticulously mechanically and bodily restored XK
* Extensively upgraded with 3.8 engine and power steering
* Extensive history file detailing restoration and improvements

Footnotes

A progressive development of the sensational XK120 and XK140, the XK150 retained the same basic chassis, 3.4-litre engine and four-speed Moss transmission of its predecessors but benefited from an entirely new body providing increased interior space and improved visibility courtesy of a single-piece wrap-around windscreen. 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; at last 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 coupe forms, the open 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. Overdrive and automatic transmission were options.

This left-hand drive XK150 Drophead Coupé has been comprehensively restored and upgraded with sensible modifications to achieve a fast, fine handling and dependable car without compromising that classic Jaguar character. Purchased in restored condition from Mark Hyman in the USA in 2015 and imported into the UK, the XK150 has undergone a complete survey and further restoration, commissioned by its exacting owner. He engaged an independent Jaguar XK consultant to oversee the works, which included up-rating the engine to '3.8' specification using a later-type 3.4-litre block, bored to 3.8-litres, and the 3.4 'S' cylinder head together with upgraded connecting rods, crankshaft, timing gear, oil pump, and 'S'-type camshafts.

The original transmission has been replaced with a Borg Warner 65 five-speed automatic gearbox complete with oil cooler. Engine cooling is taken care of by an aluminium radiator with an electric fan, while all the electrics have been up-rated. The front suspension and rear axle have been overhauled and 'EZ' electric power steering fitted. The body had already been repainted in Old English White in the USA, and the car has a contrasting red leather interior and a new mohair hood. All history and works are carefully recorded and the new owner will be acquiring a very nice XK150 benefiting from the vendor's uncompromising commitment to quality workmanship.

Saleroom notices

Please note the chassis number is S837280

Additional information

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