Description
This is a genuine right hand drive, home market 3. 8 litre XK150S. An extremely rare and desirable iteration of the E-type precursor, being one of only 115 right hand drive examples to be built by Jaguar.
Produced on the 10th February 1960, it was despatched to Henlys of London in the utterly delightful form presented today; Cotswold Blue with Red leather interior. Unusually, the car features extremely desirable reclining Reutter seats - a sort after option by collectors today and much more practical than the more typical static items.
The car has enjoyed periods of long-term ownership and significant expenditure in recent history to ensure its mechanical condition complements the cosmetic appearance. The original Dunlop brakes are in perfect order for example, whilst the fuel and ignition system has all been recommissioned too. The painted wire wheels were replaced in 2019 and the overdrive overhauled. The car presents exceptionally well - it is without doubt the nicest XK to pass through our hands. The paint is deep and liquid-like whilst the brightwork is mirror-bright. The interior is the perfect complement to the exterior and oozes authenticity.
The original 3. 8 litre engine (VAS1123-9) was replaced by Jaguar in period. The replacement unit (VAS2278-9) is as per original specification - retaining the legendary straight-port 'ZA' cylinder head design and triple SU HD8 carburettors. It starts exceptionally willingly and on the road proves to be an iron fist in a velvet glove. Even by todays standards this is a fast and capable car. The moss gearbox is a delight and far less recalcitrant than most examples. Overdrive clicks in and out as you would hope and expect for the ultimate XK. It was described as a 'perfect example' in the March 2020 edition of 'Jaguar World Monthly' where it was road-tested. A copy is provided in the history file.
With its breath-taking performance and presentation, this rare 3. 8S is an absolute ticket to premium vintage touring and quite simply the ultimate expression of Jaguar's golden era. It is the most accessibly priced, genuine RHD 3. 8S Fixed Head Coupe on the UK market.
