The Jaguar XK150 was introduced in 1957 as a replacement for the XK140. It is a front engine, rear wheel drive sports car and came in fixed-head coupe (FHC), drop-head coupe (DHC) and roadster forms, although production of the latter was delayed due to a fire at Jaguar’s Brown’s Lane plant.
The XK 150 was Jaguar’s response to the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster. In its 250 bhp “S” configuration, it was faster than the XK 120 and XK 140, and even quicker than the C-Type to 100 mph. It was comfortable and weather-tight, with disc brakes from the D-Type racer. The XK 150 initially had the 3.4-litre engine of the 140, but the 210 bhp 3.8-litre engine from the Mark IX saloon was offered in late 1959.
Visually the XK150 was a much bulkier car than the preceding 120 and 140, with curved windshield, high wings and a bigger grille. The roadster was fitted with wind-up windows and lost the cut-down doors of its predecessor. Interior space was increased and coupe and convertible adopted the leather-trimmed dashboard of the roadster. Overdrive was optional, as was an automatic transmission.
Tuning options included the 210 bhp “Special Equipment” 3.4-litre model, with blue cylinder head. The most desirable model is the XK 150S. Notable for its straight-port head, high-lift cam and triple SU carburettors the XK150S developed 265 bhp with the 3.8-litre motor and distinctive gold-painted cylinder head. Final versions of the XK 150S were capable of 0-60 mph in seven seconds.
Total Jaguar XK150 production was 9,398 examples and of these, the XK150S model totalled 1,466 units, with 924 roadsters, 349 FHC and 193 DHC. Production halted as soon as the E-Type appeared.
Today the Jaguar XK150 has an excellent support network of specialists in the UK experienced in maintaining the XK engine. They are more practical to use than the earlier XK120 and XK140, although purists say they lack the aesthetic appeal of the earlier cars. Rust is always a problem, as are poor restorations which can be costly to reverse.
Prices for XK150s are comparable to XK120 and XK140 models. Roadsters are the most desirable, followed by DHC and then FHC models. The most collectable is the 3.8 litre XK150S, and it is priced accordingly.
Similar Jaguar models are the XK120, XK140 and E-Type. Other roadsters and coupes from the era include the Mercedes 300SL, the Alfa Romeo 2000 (Tipo 102) Spider, the Maserati 3500 Spider and the Austin Healey 3000.