1959 Jaguar XK150 Roadster

Production of the Jaguar XK150 began in the spring of 1957 and would become the last of the traditional 1950s Jaguars. Although similar in appearance to the XKE cars it was replaced, it was certainly a different machine. It retained the same basic chassis, engine, and Moss four-speed gearbox, but its outward appearance was different and wider and there was more interior room for the occupants. Four inches were added to the center of the body making the extra width possible. A one-piece wraparound windscreen improved visibility. The radiator grille was changed slightly.

The biggest improvement to the vehicle's performance was the addition of Dunlop disc brakes on all four corners of the car. The XK150 produced the same amount of horsepower as the XK140, so their performance was identical in terms of speed. The SE option added a modified cylinder head and larger exhaust valves which increased the standard 190 hp to 210. In 1958 the Model S was introduced which raised the vehicle's performance even further. With the help of three two-inch SU HD8 carburetors, a Weslake-developed cylinder head, and high compression pistons, horsepower rose to an impressive 250 bringing the zero-to-sixty time in just over seven seconds.

All of the XK150s were offered with an optional Borg-Warner automatic gearbox and a choice of either steel or wire wheels. On the S Model, a limited-slip differential could be ordered as optional equipment.

There were 2265 examples of the XK150 Roadster produced with only 888 being the highly-sought-after Model S. This example has recently been restored which took over two years to complete. It has its original factory tool kit and fitted leather luggage. It was brought to the 2008 Automobiles of Amelia presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $140,000 - $180,000. It is one of the few Model S Roadsters and its restoration brought it back to its original condition. Collectors saw the beauty and rarity in this car and drove the bidding to $154,000 including buyer's premium. The lot was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008