Lot details Registration No: NFO 905 Chassis No: S830463DN Mot Expiry: Oct 2010
Introduced in May 1957, the XK150 was the last Jaguar sportscar to utilise a separate chassis. A more sophisticated and cosseting design than its XK120 and XK140 forebears, the newcomer benefited from a far roomier cabin not to mention the adoption of four-wheel disc brakes. Unveiled in March 1958, some ten months after its Fixed Head Coupe and Drophead Coupe siblings, the Open Two-Seater (or Roadster) variant was primarily aimed at the American market. Decidedly rakish-looking thanks to a repositioned scuttle (moved four inches further back) and curved door tops, it nevertheless boasted a proper hood and wind-up windows. A comparative rarity, just 2,265 Open Two-Seaters are thought to have been made (compared to 2,682 Drophead Coupes and 4,450 Fixed Head Coupes).
Initially powered by a 3442cc derivative of Jaguar's Le Mans-proven DOHC straight-six engine, the XK150 could be specified with an enlarged 3781cc unit from late 1959 onwards. Available in Standard, Special Equipment or 'S' tune, the latter high-performance package comprised a Harry Weslake-modified cylinder head, more aggressive camshaft profiling, high compression pistons and triple SU carburettors. With a claimed 250hp on tap, the 'S' 3.4 Open Two-Seater was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.3 seconds and 135mph. Accounting for just 926 sales in period, the model has long been prized by collectors.
Finished in dark blue with contrasting grey leather upholstery, this particular example was supplied new to America. Converted from left- to right-hand drive specification upon its return to the UK, the Jaguar is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its bodywork and paintwork. While, he adds that the engine and gearbox are currently "working well".
PLEASE NOTE: We have recently been informed that this lot is an early XK150 S model dating from May 1958. As such, its chassis number is prefixed with the letter 'S' rather than the more usual letter 'T'.
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