The final installment of Jaguar’s legendary line of XK sports cars hit the market in 1957, ushering in the most comprehensive redesign of Jag’s sporting model range since the XK120 debuted nearly a decade before. The new XK150’s styling was significantly revised with a higher beltline and broad, slab body sides that modernized the design and improved cockpit comfort. It was wider than the outgoing XK140, offering considerably more cabin space. The new design was noticeably different, yet it retained the same character that made the XK series so eminently desirable among sports car enthusiasts. Under the skin, it was business as usual for Jaguar. The ladder-type chassis featured independent front suspension, a Salisbury live rear axle, disc brakes at all four corners, and precise rack and pinion steering. The powerful twin overhead-cam inline-six remained under the bonnet, and thanks to a new B-Type cylinder head, horsepower increased to 210. New for the XK150 was the high-performance “S” option, which added a race-derived straight-port head with triple S.U. Carburetors producing an impressive 250 horsepower. Production ended in October 1960, with fewer than 10,000 XK150s rolling out of Jaguar’s Browns Lane works.

This lovely 1959 XK150 is one of just 888 3.4-liter “S” models produced. A numbers-matching car, it is the subject of a high-quality, well-preserved restoration and is presented in its original shade of Carmen Red. Per the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificated, this car was produced and dispatched in May 1958, bound for Jaguar Cars USA in New York. The build records show it was finished in Carmen Red over red upholstery and a black top. Equipment includes the high-performance S specification 3.4-litre engine backed by a four-speed manual gearbox with Laycock de Normanville overdrive. It is worth noting that while this car was produced in early 1958, it is titled as a 1959 model, which is most likely due to it being titled in the year it was sold – a common practice of the period.

The previous owners treated this car to a comprehensive restoration, completed in 2013. The body was refinished in its original color, and it remains in excellent order, with straight crisply-defined panels, consistent gaps, and beautiful chrome plating on the bumpers and body trim. Some minor cracking is noted around the boot lid handle. Gorgeous chrome knock-off wire wheels complement the striking bright red paint, and the wheels wear period-correct 6.00 x 16 crossply tires. Jaguar updated the XK150 OTS with roll-up glass side windows, eschewing fiddly side curtains for good, and the remaining weather equipment includes a black Stayfast canvas top, matching boot cover, and a matching canvas tonneau for overnight stops.

The beautifully trimmed cockpit has been updated with biscuit Connolly hides and correct materials such as Wilton carpet and vinyl coverings. The tan color contrasts the paintwork, and the interior has an inviting, lightly broken-in character. The leather seats and dash pad are in good condition, as are the door cards and kick panels. Authentic details include restored Smiths instruments, a correct four-spoke steering wheel, and proper switches and controls. The boot is trimmed in tan Hardura to match and houses a matching chrome spare, jack, and a beautiful concours-quality factory tool roll.

The Jaguar Heritage Certificate confirms this car retains its original, numbers-matching 3.4-litre block and head. The under-bonnet presentation is excellent and includes brightly polished alloy cam covers, triple SU carburetors (unique to the S model), Lucas gold coil, and a correct glass Triplex washer bottle. Hoses, clamps, hardware, and ancillaries are appropriately detailed to near-concours standards. A complete Bell stainless-steel exhaust system provides lifetime durability and a fabulously addictive bark from the tailpipes.

The XK150 S represents the ultimate development of the XK line, and those in the know recognize it as the best driver’s car of the series. This appealing example benefits from expert care and offers an outstanding driving experience for the enthusiast in search of a comfortable, capable, and exciting grand tourer to enjoy at prestigious driving events worldwide.

Offers welcome and trades considered 

$169,500

Stock number 7325