JaguarXK150S (1960): Full Restoration/ Matching Nos

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The Jaguar 150 was the final evolution of the legendary XK launched in 1949 and was the most refined and powerful of the XK range. Announced for the home market in May 1957 the XK150 bore a family resemblance to both the XK120 & 140 but was radically revised with a larger one-piece windscreen, higher wing line/ larger doors making driver/ passenger access easier and the driving position much improved/ more spacious.



Beauty was not just skin deep and the final iteration of the ‘150’ came to market in 1960 when the 220hp 3. 8 engine fitted to the Mark IX saloon was made available. The legendary late ‘S’ specification was tuned to produce 265hp and benefited from triple 2 inch SU’s, Straight Port Head and Thornton Power Lock Axle that propelled the car to 135mph with the 0-60 mph dash available in around 7. 00 seconds.



With an ‘S’ production run of under 150 cars and less than 50 right hand drive this is a very rare car indeed. The original RF60 buff logbook from July 1960 shows that the car was registered to a senior manager at Birds (Derby) Ltd, the large Midlands based baking company.



From the history folder we can see that the Jaguar changed hands during 1965 and ran as an everyday car until 1974 when she was placed in storage. During June 1996 the car was purchased as a barn find and a full body-off restoration was commenced – this has stood the test of time extremely well and is a real testament to the craftsmanship of the restorers.



From the photographic evidence in the history file it is clear that the two brothers completing the work cut no corners. The chassis was stripped and sent off for shotblasting while bodywork was replaced as necessary. The colour was changed at this time from the original Cotswold Blue/ Black interior to Carmen Red/ Oatmeal interior - a stunning combination.



The fully restored XK arrived with the current owner in West Sussex during 2012 as a present from his wife. Over the years the Jaguar has been used for UK/ Continental tours with the XK Club and provided the couple with lots of fun and many, many happy memories.



There is a lovely history folder with the Jaguar containing the buff logbook, old MOT’s, lots of invoices, pictures of the restoration and the car still retains her original Derby registration number.



Servicing/ work on the car has been completed as required, most recently a new main oil seal (modern lip seal upgrade), clutch kit, carb overhaul, crankshaft pulley/ damper and full-service costing in excess of £6k.



The XK 150 roadster in late ‘S’ specification is an exceptionally rare and very capable car. Price sensibly this lovely classic is ready for more adventures with a new custodian and needs to be seen (and driven) in order to be fully appreciated.