1959 Jaguar XK150 S FHC

Building its reputation through the Fifties for affordable, high performance, often race-proven cars, Jaguar was riding a wave of sales success with its XK range of sports cars, but it was no secret that the cramped cockpit of the XK120 was putting off potential (full-size) customers.   

Developed into the XK140 and finally XK150, Jaguar’s beautiful sports car grew into a more useable, enjoyable ownership proposition with more power, more sophisticated handling, and most importantly, enough space to make it a useable cross-continent tourer.   

The XK150 brought much-needed disc brakes - “the brake of the future is on Jaguar NOW” -  more power, a more modern wrap-around windscreen, and a widened cabin.   The S variant of the XK150, offered as a 3.4 or 3.8 litre, was the ultimate road-going performance machine, with Triple SU carburettors, a straight-port head and a limited-slip differential.   

Collectors today gravitate towards these later cars as the most drivable and liveable examples which lost little in the style department, but gained much in practicality over the earlier, more compromised cars. Now more than ever, it’s important to invest in vehicles which can truly be used in current traffic conditions and bring pleasure when driving, either on local roads or on the many rallies and tours now available to enter.   

This beautiful Indigo Blue XK150S was originally delivered through Charles Follett, Ltd in Piccadilly, London, on the 6th May 1959. Originally a 3.4S, with a Biscuit leather interior, this XK has benefitted from an older restoration including an interior colour change to the current light blue, and a raft of mechanical upgrades aimed at increasing performance, dependability and ease of driving. There are almost $50,000 in receipts from its long-term ownership, making for a sorted, ready-to-go opportunity for its new custodian.   

The engine has been upgraded to a 3.8 litre which has been taken beyond S specification with a hotter cam and exhaust extractors replacing the standard cast manifold. The cooling system has been upgraded with a larger alloy radiator and electric cooling fan.   

The original and sometimes difficult Moss Gearbox has been replaced with a Getrag five-speed, and a hydraulic power steering system has been fitted from a later Jaguar. The original overdrive switch has been repurposed to operate an electric choke, and the car starts easily, idles perfectly and makes a glorious bark as it responds instantly to the throttle.   

The gearshift feels tight and precise and the steering is direct and enjoyable. The original matching-numbers 3.4S engine and Moss ‘box will also come with the car, but it has been built to be reliably used and enjoyed. Indeed, it just came third in this year’s Targa Classica proving that it’s capable of comfortable and enjoyable multi-day touring.   

If you’re looking for the pinnacle of Fifties style and a driving experience to match, but without the hassle of tricky mechanicals, or worrying about dicing with modern traffic, this is the perfect classic. You will turn heads and be greeted with smiles and waves wherever you go, but most of all you will want to get out and really drive it, as often as possible.