Description
One of the 1950s most iconic cars, the Jaguar XK series have always had a strong following and are in strong demand!
As the final model in the XK production line, the 150 made several technological advances over the XK120 and XK140 models, and provided a longer and wider cockpit area which accommodates a larger and taller driver more comfortably.
The XK150 was the first successful mass produced car with four wheel disc brakes and also the first Jaguar roadster equipped with wind up windows. The top (hood) of the OTS collapses completely, to be stored behind the seats.
In total, just 2265 150 Roadsters were produced, (considerably less than in the 120 or 140 series), of which there are thought to be less than 1500 remaining worldwide today.
These 150 OTS’s, are therefore reasonably rare, with only around 7 in New Zealand.
ABOUT THIS CAR
This XK150 was a one-owner vehicle in the United States prior to its import into New Zealand in 1996. The original ownership documentation accompanies the car, including the signed transfer papers from the original owner at the time of sale in 1995.
Following importation, the vehicle underwent a comprehensive restoration in New Zealand’s North Island and was subsequently first registered for road use in 2010, showing less than 45, 000 original miles at that time.
A recent custodian has continued to carefully develop and maintain the car over the past 15 years. In 2015, the engine was fully rebuilt following bearing damage caused by an incorrectly fitted oil filter gasket. The rebuild exceeded $15, 000 and included renewal or refurbishment of all major internal components, with full supporting invoices available.
This XK150 3. 4-litre DOHC straight-six SE (Special Equipment) specification features the factory “B-Type” performance cylinder head with large valves, similar in design philosophy to those used in the Le Mans-winning D-Type. It is equipped with twin 1. 75-inch (44 mm) SU HD6 carburettors, delivering approximately 210 SAE bhp at 5, 500 rpm.
Mechanical specification includes rack and pinion steering and four-wheel Dunlop 12-inch disc brakes, representing the advanced factory SE configuration. The gearbox is the original close-ratio SE unit, fitted with electric overdrive on top gear.
All numbered components remain consistent with factory records and match the original commission and patent plate documentation.
The car presents beautifully and remains in outstanding condition throughout. It is a rare and highly desirable example that attracts attention wherever it is driven, complemented by a superb exhaust note under acceleration evocative of the great 1950s sports racing cars.
Accompanied by extensive documentation including service records, invoices, tool kit and handbooks.
Overall condition is exceptional. In fact, it would be difficult to find a finer example.
SPECIFICATIONS
Manufacturer: Jaguar Cars
Model: XK150 OTS (Open Two Seater)
Production: 1957–1961
Body style: 2-door roadster (convertible, external wings integrated design)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR)
Engine: 3. 4-litre XK inline 6-cylinder, DOHC
Power output: ~190 bhp (standard twin SU carburettors)
Compression ratio: approx. 8. 0:1
Carburetion: Twin SU H6 carburettors
Top speed: ~120–125 mph (193–201 km/ h)
0–60 mph: ~8. 5–9. 0 seconds (period tested)
High-compression “B-Type” head (SE)
Twin SU carburettors
Power output: ~210–250 bhp depending on spec
Higher-lift camshaft and revised induction
4-speed manual gearbox (Moss unit)
Electric overdrive on 3rd and 4th gears
Close-ratio SE gearbox available on performance models
Front: Independent torsion bar suspension, wishbones
Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs
Steering: Rack and pinion (XK150 upgrade over XK140)
Brakes:
Standard: 4-wheel disc brakes (Dunlop system)
One of the first production cars with disc brakes all round
Wheelbase: 102 in (2, 591 mm)
Length: ~177 in (4, 496 mm)
Width: ~65 in (1, 651 mm)
Height: ~52 in (1, 321 mm)
Fuel tank: ~16 gallons (73 litres)
Fuel type: Petrol (high octane preferred)
First XK model with a full-width windscreen
Wider body compared with XK140
Improved brakes (standard discs)
Refined interior with better visibility and ergonomics
Stronger chassis refinement over earlier XK models
The 1958 XK150 OTS represents the final evolution of Jaguar Cars’ classic XK sports car line, combining period racing-derived engineering with increasingly modern road manners. In both SE or S specification, it becomes a genuinely fast grand touring sports car even by today’s standards.
Beyond its performance credentials, the XK150 OTS is widely regarded as one of the most elegant open-top British sports cars of its era, with a timeless design that has aged into true classic status. Its combination of hand-built craftsmanship, motorsport-derived engineering, and long-hood grand touring proportions places it firmly among the most desirable post-war Jaguars.
Today, well-presented examples continue to attract strong international interest, with values reflecting both increasing scarcity and sustained collector demand. As more cars move into long-term private collections, the best examples, particularly those with strong provenance, matching numbers, and documented history, are becoming increasingly difficult to source.
The XK150 OTS sits in a particularly attractive position in the classic market: it offers genuine usability, established heritage, and strong aesthetic appeal, while also benefiting from a growing appreciation curve as collectors increasingly recognise the significance of the final XK-series development. As a result, it remains a highly collectible and emotionally compelling classic, with long-term appreciation potential supported by enduring global desirability.
Enquiries are welcomed, and viewing is encouraged to fully appreciate the presence, condition, and character of this iconic Jaguar in person.
Transport / Shipping can be organised for Buyer's behalf at Buyer's cost.
Viewing is Monday to Friday By Appointment Only!
PLEASE READ: The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.
