1961 Jaguar XK150: The remarkable roadster

1961 Jaguar XK150: The remarkable roadster

Engine Inline 6Horsepower 250 HP (184 KW) @ 5500 RPMTorque 240 Ft-Lbs (325 NM) @ 3000 RPM Engine Location FrontDrive Type RWD Weight 3025 lbs | 1372.117 kg Transmission 4-speed manual

The Jaguar XK150 was a notable sports vehicle produced by Jaguar between 1957 and 1961. It was the successor to the XK140 and was available as a roadster, coupe, and drophead coupe. 

Source: CGTrader

The Jaguar XK150 was one of the most powerful sports vehicles made at the moment when it was introduced in 1957. It was released as a successor to the legendary XK140 paving the way for more remarkable models of the brand. This glorious sports vehicle was extremely well-received by critics and brand fans alike because of the combination of elegant design and high performance. The car was considered one of the best automobiles of the class of its time standing apart with beautiful design, reliability, and comfort which keeps the reputation of a classic even now.

The origins

Source: Mecum Auctions

This Jaguar model was the last in the sporty  XK series, which replaced the XK140 in 1957. The roadster became heavier and slower compared with its predecessors. Interestingly, the “150” didn’t reflect the top speed in mph. Following the requirements of the market, the model received a one-piece windshield, a wider grille, an elongated hood, and smoothed wing bends.  The automobile was available in three body styles – convertible (DHC), coupe (FHC), and roadster (OTS). Convertibles and coupes had an extra rear seat for one person. Compared with the previous series, the new one got a leather instrument panel instead of the wooden one.

The changes in the interior were less significant: the company decided to pay more attention to the technical equipment, particularly the engine. The basic car was equipped with the standard 6-cylinder engine with 3442 cm3 volume which developed 190 hp and the improved SE version could reach the power of 210 hp. In addition, the top S version was also available, developing 250 hp. In 1960, the volume of the power unit was increased to 3781 cm3, and the power increased to the base 220 hp or an additional 265 hp for the S version. Standard equipment included a 4-speed manual transmission, Dunlop disc brakes on all wheels, 16″ steel wheels with hubcaps, and Dunlop Road Speed 6.00 x 16″ tires. As an option, the company provided an automatic transmission, spoked wheels, and 185VR16 Pirelli Cinturato CA67 tires.

The 1961 model year

Source: Trade Classic

The model’s final year of production was in 1961 and it was offered in three different body styles: a roadster, fixed-head coupe, and drophead coupe. Its 3.8-liter DOHC inline-six engine produced 220 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, which was coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox. A three-speed automatic gearbox was also optional. The car had a top speed of around 130-140 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 8 seconds. It featured an independent front suspension and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, as well as four-wheel disc brakes, which was unusual for its time. Weighing in at around 3000 pounds, the XK150 was a lightweight vehicle. Compared to its predecessor, the XK140, the XK150’s styling was an evolution, yet it was larger and more refined. The car’s interior boasted leather seats, wood veneer accents, and a well-designed dashboard. Overall, the XK150 was a stylish, powerful, and well-handling sports car that showcased the latest advancements in British sports car design during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Did you know?

Source: Classic Digest

There were many notable and famous owners of the Jaguar XK150, particularly the later models like the 1961 model. Some famous actors, politicians, and other public figures who had owned XK150s include:

Contact us if you have this or another classic car to sell.

1961 Jaguar XK150: The remarkable roadster

Engine Inline 6Horsepower 250 HP (184 KW) @ 5500 RPMTorque 240 Ft-Lbs (325 NM) @ 3000 RPM Engine Location FrontDrive Type RWD Weight 3025 lbs | 1372.117 kg Transmission 4-speed manual

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