1959 Jaguar XK150 SE Drop Head Coupe


Details

The Jaguar XK120 was launched in 1948 at the London Motor Show. It caused a sensation, which persuaded Jaguar founder and design boss William Lyons to put it into production. It was Jaguar’s first sports car since the SS 100, which ceased production in 1940. The “120″ in its name referred to its 120 mph top speed, which made the XK120 the world’s fastest production car in its day. It was available in two open versions, first as the roadster (designated OTS, for open two-seater), then also as a drop head coupé (DHC) from 1953. The car was also available as a closed or fixed head coupé (FHC) from 1951.

The XK120 was succeeded by the XK140 which was launched in late 1954 and sold through until 1957. Whilst the XK140 looked similar to the XK120 there were in fact many subtle and indeed important differences. The XK140 featured a more spacious cabin and had improved brakes, suspension and steering. Visually the car had American style bumpers with overriders, a different grille (that had fewer, thicker vertical bars), a chrome strip on the bonnet & boot and an emblem “Jaguar Winner Le Mans 1951-3” on the boot also.

The final iteration of the XK was the XK150 that was released in 1957. Whilst its family resemblance to its forbearers is obvious the XK150 was in fact a very different car. Most noticeable was the change to a one piece windscreen and the smoother ‘wing line’ from the front to the rear of the car. Cabin space was significantly improved making the XK150 a far more comfortable car to drive. Mechanically the first XK150’s were similar to the XK140’s, however, an ‘SE’ variant with a modified cylinder head giving more power and an ‘S’ variant with triple SU carburetors giving even more power were soon available. In 1959 engine capacity was increased from 3.4 litres to 3.8 litres.

Like the XK120 both the XK140 and XK150 were offered in three body style being the roadster, drop head coupe and fixed head coupe.

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer sale this lovely 1959 Jaguar XK150 SE Drop Head Coupe. The early history of this factory right hand drive XK150 is not known. The car was found in poor condition by its previous to current owner many years ago and it was restored over a long period of time. Unfortunately the then owner of the car passed away before fully completing the restoration. Interestingly the car was restored as a drop head coupe rather than as a fixed head coupe. The car then sat for many years before his family decided to finish off the restoration, recommission the car and then sell it. The car is well known to Oldtimer Australia having been sold for this family to its current owner some two years ago.

Today the car presents beautifully both inside and out. The British racing green exterior and tan interior is just a sublime colour combination for this car. Whilst on older restoration the paint work remains in excellent condition with a high gloss finish. There is the odd stone chip and imperfection evident, but you have to look hard to find them. All of the exterior trim, chrome, glass etc are also in very good condition. The cabin is just a lovely place to be and the overall condition of the interior is described as excellent. Similarly the black soft top is ‘as new’ and most likely never been used. Mechanically the car is also very good. The car starts easily and is just a joy to drive. Being an ‘SE’ model it is fitted with overdrive which is a real bonus for highway cruising. The gearbox is also very good and the car shifts cleanly through the gears. In summary this car drives and performs as one would expect from a well sorted Jaguar XK.

We love the more aggressive look and stance of this car as it is fitted with 15″ wheels with relatively low profile tyres. The original wheels also accompany the car. The car also been fitted with a smaller diameter steering wheel to improve the drivability of the car, however, the original steering wheel is also with the car.

This classic Jaguar is ready for Summer and its next keeper.

 


Specification

  • -
  • Jaguar XK150
  • 1958
  • Convertible
  • Manual
  • 3365 miles
  • 3442cc

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