1959 JAGUAR XK150 DHC

This 1959 Jaguar XK150 Drophead Coupe is a wonderful classic grand tourer, presented in excellent condition throughout and in a charming colour combination. Under the bonnet is a 3.8-litre straight-six, which was taken from a later ‘S’ specification car, and as such produces around 265bhp. This is coupled to a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The odometer displays 6,386km, though this is not warranted.

Launched in 1957, the XK150 was the final iteration of the original XK concept, and offered a notably more refined driving experience than its XK120 and XK140 predecessors. While it was initially offered with a 3.4-litre engine, a 3.8-litre version was introduced in 1959, which was available in both a standard and an enhanced ‘S’ state of tune.

First registered in June 1959, this left-hand drive XK150 is believed to be an original US-market car. Indeed, it was shipped from California to France in 1996 and was restored some years later, before being sold to its current owner at a Paris auction in 2004, being transported to their home in Greece.

At some stage, the original engine was replaced with a more powerful ‘S’ specification unit, and the original dynamo has been replaced with an alternator during its current keeper’s ownership. Having enjoyed several long-distance trips with the car over the years, they are now offering it for sale to make way for their next acquisition.

Today, the handsome bodywork remains solid and rust-free, while the underside of the car is protected by an anti-corrosion coating. While it is not known whether the Ivory White finish has been resprayed in the past, it presents extremely well, with a bright and glossy appearance around the whole car, and only a few age-related marks, including a small blemish behind the rear driver’s-side wheel and chips on the front edges of the boot lid and the driver’s door.

All of the brightwork, including the bumpers, the front grille and Jaguar’s iconic ‘Leaper’ bonnet emblem is in great shape, and the light lenses are similarly smart. Having previously been replaced, the beige canvas convertible hood is in good order, with only one small cut towards the rear driver’s side. The car sits on a set of 16-inch chromed wire wheels, which are in great shape and are fitted with the correct two-eared knock-off hub nuts.

Moving inside, the cabin is in remarkably good condition, with an attractive light patina throughout. Clad in red leather, the seats show some general signs of wear and creasing, as is to be expected given the car’s age, while the matching dashboard and door cards show only modest signs of use. Ahead, the four-spoke steering wheel is also very tidy, as is the wooden gear knob, which replaces the car’s original black item. While the seller notes that the car’s clock is not functioning, all of the other buttons, switches, and electrical items work as they should.

Routinely maintained by the seller’s personal mechanic, who previously worked for Jaguar for 40 years, this XK150 is said to be in fine mechanical health. Its most recent service included an engine oil and filter change, as well as the fitment of a new fuel pump. During its current keeper’s ownership, the carburettors have also been rebuilt and the brake callipers and pads have been changed, the thermostat and water pump have been replaced, and an electric fan has been fitted to aid cooling.

Its last roadworthiness test was conducted in 2004, when no faults were found. All four wheels are shod in Michelin Pilote X tyres, which are in very good condition and have ample tread remaining. The car will be accompanied by its owner’s guide, its original jack and two sets of keys.

Presented in superb condition, this 1959 Jaguar XK150 Drophead Coupe is a fine example of the classic British sports car. Now equipped with a more powerful ‘S’ specification 3.8-litre straight-six and maintained to a high standard during the seller’s 17 years of ownership, this big cat is ready to prowl the open road and delight its next owner.

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