Description
The Jaguar XK150 was a sports car produced by Jaguar between 1957 and 1961. It replaced the XK140 and was initially available as a coupé (FHC) and convertible (DHC). The two-seater roadster (OTC) was not launched until 1958. Although it had a family resemblance to the XK120 and XK140, the XK150 was radically modernised. A one-piece windscreen replaces the split screen, and the wing line no longer descends as far above the doors. The bonnet has been widened, opening right up to the wings, and on the roadster the bulkhead has been moved back 4 inches (102mm) to lengthen the bonnet. The car was available at various times in red, pearl grey, white, indigo blue, burgundy, Cotswold blue, black, misty grey, sherwood green, carmen red, British racing green, Cornish grey and imperial burgundy. Inside, the XK140's walnut dashboard was replaced by a leather-trimmed one. On early Drop Head coupes, a central aluminium dashboard with X-shaped engraving was fitted, similar to that on early E 3. 8 types. It was removed after June 1958. The slimmer doors provided more space inside. The standard engine, the same as the XK140, was Jaguar's 3. 4-litre DOHC in-line 6-cylinder, rated at 180 bhp SAE at 5, 750 rpm, but most cars were fitted with the SE engine, which had a modified cylinder head with larger exhaust valves, rated at 210 bhp SAE at 5, 500 rpm. Two 44mm (1. 75in) SU HD6 carburettors were fitted, and Dunlop 305mm four-wheel disc brakes made their first appearance, although it was theoretically possible to order a car with drums. Wire wheels or solid wheels could be specified. The suspension and chassis were very similar to those of the XK140. Steering was rack and pinion; power steering was not offered. Production ended in October 1960, with a total of 2, 265 Roadsters, 4, 445 Coupés and 2, 672 Convertibles produced. This example, a 3. 4-litre with manual gearbox and overdrive, was fully restored in Belgium over 20 years ago after being imported from England. It has remained in very good condition throughout. Drives very well
