XK150 was a statement of style, a symbol of power, and a testament to the engineering genius of its creators. From the moment it first graced the streets, this beautiful automobile turned heads and drew admiring glances from all who beheld its sleek and muscular lines.

Source: European Collectibles

Yet, the XK150 was more than just a feast for the eyes; beneath its captivating exterior lay a heart of raw power. The very essence of its being was defined by a robust and commanding engine, ready to unleash its potential at the slightest touch of the accelerator. With each press of the pedal, it effortlessly surged forward, solidifying its reputation as a true force to be reckoned with on the roads.

The origins

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Lyons turned to his trusted engineer, William Heynes, to lead the project. Heynes was a brilliant engineer who had worked on some of Jaguar’s most successful vehicles, including the XK120 and the C-Type. Together, Lyons and Heynes began designing what would eventually become the Jaguar XK150. The project was not without its challenges, however. Lyons and Heynes had set their sights high, and they knew that they would need to create something truly special to surpass their previous successes. They worked tirelessly, spending long hours in the factory and poring over sketches and blueprints until they had a design that they were both proud of. Finally, in 1957, the glorious novelty was unveiled to the world. The automobile was an instant sensation, with its sleek lines and powerful engine captivating drivers and enthusiasts alike. The new automobile featured a new, more powerful 3.4-liter engine, which was capable of reaching speeds of up to 135 mph. The XK150 gained widespread acclaim not only for its outstanding performance but also for its opulent interior. The luxurious leather seats and elegant yet functional dashboard were a true work of art in design. This remarkable vehicle quickly became one of the most coveted automobiles of its era. Despite its resounding success, Lyons and Heynes were far from complacent and continued to refine the design, introducing successive versions of the XK150 in subsequent years. In 1961, they unveiled the ultimate rendition of the car, the XK150 S. With a new 3.8-liter engine and improved suspension system, this model surpassed its predecessors in speed and agility. The fascinating story behind the creation of the XK150 underscores the profound impact of vision and hard work, serving as a timeless testament to the enduring allure of an exceptional sports car.

The 1959 model year

Source: Classic Driver

In 1959, the automobile entered its second series, which was initially launched in 1958. The second series brought about significant changes in technical specifications, interior, and exterior design, distinguishing it from its predecessor. Available in three body styles – coupe, drophead coupe, and roadster – the 1959 edition was equipped with a powerful 3.4-liter inline 6 engine. This engine delivered an impressive 210 horsepower and 231 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission featuring overdrive. As a result, the car achieved improved fuel efficiency and reduced engine noise at higher speeds. With its top speed reaching 124 mph and a remarkable 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 8.5 seconds, the 1959 model demonstrated outstanding performance capabilities. The interior of the 1959 Xrelease was largely unchanged from the previous model years. It featured leather upholstery and a wooden dashboard with classic Jaguar instruments. However, a few updates were made in terms of comfort and convenience. The seats were now wider and more comfortable, and the cabin was more spacious than the previous models. The car also had improved heating and ventilation systems. In terms of exterior, the 1959 edition had some notable changes from the previous version. The automobile had a more aerodynamic body design with a lower hood and a wider grille. The headlights were also lower and had a more streamlined appearance. The rear part had a more squared-off design, and the rear fender line was more pronounced. The automobile had a longer wheelbase than the previous models, which improved stability and handling. Compared to the previous model years, the 1959 version had several improvements in terms of performance, comfort, and design. The engine was upgraded to produce more power, and the transmission was improved with the addition of overdrive. The cabin was more spacious and comfortable, and the vehicle had improved heating and ventilation systems. The exterior design had a more aerodynamic and streamlined appearance with a wider grille and lower hood. The car also had a longer wheelbase, which improved stability and handling. Overall, the 1959 edition was a remarkable sports vehicle that combined performance, comfort, and classic British design. It had several improvements over the previous model years, and its technical specifications, interior and exterior design made it a popular choice among sports driving enthusiasts.

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Source: Bring a Trailer

The 1959 Jaguar XK150 was featured in the opening sequence of the famous action-adventure film “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” (2001) starring Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft. The car was driven by the villain of the film, played by Iain Glen. 

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Sleek, sophisticated, and utterly awe-inspiring, the Jaguar XK150 was a true marvel of automotive engineering. From its bold curves and aerodynamic design to its powerful engine and unparalleled performance, every aspect of this magnificent machine was crafted with precision and passion.

Source: Bring a Trailer

The Jaguar XK150 was a true automotive masterpiece that represented the pinnacle of British engineering and design. With its stunning looks, exceptional performance, and advanced features, this classic car continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. In the late 1950s, the XK150 was built upon the success of its predecessor, the XK140, and incorporated numerous upgrades that made it faster, more comfortable, and safer to drive.

The origins

Source: Cision News

The development of the Jaguar XK150 began in 1957, as a successor to the widely popular XK140. The automobile was designed by William Heynes, an engineer and designer who had played a pivotal role in the creation of several iconic Jaguar vehicles including the XK120 and XK140. The novelty was available in three distinct body styles – the drophead coupe, the fixed-head coupe, and the roadster. All three boasted the classic Jaguar styling that had become popular in the 1950s. One of the key upgrades over its predecessor was the inclusion of disc brakes on all four wheels, which was a revolutionary feature at the time. The model also featured an improved suspension system that offered better handling and a comfortable ride. The vehicle received a 3.4-liter inline 6 engine that churned out 190 horsepower, making it one of the fastest vehicles of its time. In 1958, Jaguar introduced a larger 3.8-liter engine that produced 220 horsepower. Between 1957 and 1961, the company produced a total of 9,398 units of the legendary model. Despite being equipped with high-end features and offering exceptional performance, the XK150 was surprisingly affordable, making it appealing to a diverse range of drivers. Between 1957 and 1961, Jaguar produced a total of 9,398 automobiles. Despite being equipped with high-end features and offering exceptional performance, the model was surprisingly affordable, making it appealing to a diverse range of drivers. Today, the automobile remains highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts, with many examples having been meticulously restored to their original condition. Its timeless design and outstanding driving experience continue to captivate enthusiasts from around the world, cementing its status as a classic icon.

The 1958 model year

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The 1958 edition of this car housed a 3.4-liter inline-six engine that produced 210 horsepower and was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. Its impressive performance on the road was owed to features like the independent front suspension, a live rear axle, and disc brakes on all four wheels. With a remarkable 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of just 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph, the 1958 version proved to be an extraordinary vehicle. Noteworthy updates were introduced in this edition, including the option for a Borg-Warner automatic transmission, a notable improvement over the previous model. This new gearbox made the vehicle more appealing to a broader range of drivers, as it allowed for a smoother and more effortless driving experience. This update contributed to the model’s reputation as a luxurious and sophisticated vehicle. The interior of the 1958 release was a comfortable and luxurious space, with leather upholstery and wood veneer accents. The car came standard with a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and the dashboard featured a combination of analog gauges and switches. The seats were adjustable and could be tilted forward to provide access to the rear seats, which were best suited for children or small adults. Compared to the previous version, the 1958 version had several notable differences. The car featured a new front grille, which was wider and more squared-off than the previous version. The headlamps were also updated, with the new model featuring larger units that were mounted slightly higher on the fenders. The rear of the car was also restyled, with the taillights being moved up and integrated into the rear wings. The XK150 also received some mechanical updates, including a revised exhaust system and larger brakes. These improvements helped to make the car more reliable and better suited to long-distance driving. 

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Source: Hemmings

Over the years, the 1958 XK150 model gained widespread recognition and became an icon in various popular films and TV series. Among its most notable appearances was in a renowned British spy show that ran from 1961 to 1969. In this series, the lead character John Steed, portrayed by Patrick Macnee, was seen driving a 1958 Roadster version, further cementing its legendary status.

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It was the most luxurious car ever produced by Jaguar with the XK index. The rounded radiator grille and the high line of the wings made it, unlike the cars of its time. This roadster became the epitome of British elegance, sporting spirit, and success.

Source: Lot-Art

The XK150 became a logical continuation of the 120th and 140th models from the famous XK series. The car appeared in 1957 featuring a wider body, which created an increased interior space, comfort, and improved visibility. The wide grille and taller front fender line made the automobile very different from previous versions of the XK series, and improved performance with Dunlop disc brakes provided stopping power to match its speed. According to FIAT chief designer Pete Davies, its sleek lines and compact form had a more finished look than any of the company’s other sports cars.  

The origins

Source: Flickr

Even though this roadster was the last of the famous XK series, i.e. already obsolete and almost eclipsed by the E-series that replaced it, still it had its breakthroughs worthy to be mentioned. First of all, it was the disc brakes on all wheels and a 3.8-liter version of the engine the car received. However, the last roadster of the XK series was heavier and slower than its predecessors, so “150” was no longer a top speed in mph. According to the market requirements, the model received a one-piece windshield, a wider grille, an elongated hood, and smoothed wing bends. As before, there were three body styles to choose from: convertible (DHC), coupe (FHC), and roadster (OTS). Convertibles and coupes had an extra rear seat for one person. Inside, the wooden instrument panel was replaced with leather. Technically,  the changes were less significant and mainly concerned the engine. The model received the 3442 cm3 6-cylinder engine which developed 190 hp, in the improved SE version – 210 hp, and in the top S version – 250 hp. The last years of production were marked by an increase in the volume of the power unit, which also led to an increase in power. From 1950 to 1960, the company won the American market, where the Jaguar XK150 and XK150 Roadster with 2.4 to 3.8 liters engines and 220 hp had huge success. Demand for Jaguars was so great that the brand opened another plant in Browns Lane.

The 1960 model year

Source: Sports Car Digest

In 1960, the volume of the power unit was increased to 3781 cm3, respectively, the power increased to the base 220 hp or an additional 265 hp for the XK150 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″ wheels, and 185VR16 Pirelli Cinturato CA67 tires. The lines of the 1960 XK150 were devoid of excessive muscularity and other stylistic exaggerations. Cleverly designed expensive trim emphasized the model’s goal to compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300SL and BMW 507. This edition featured an intricately curved one-piece windshield, which markedly improved visibility, while the instrument panel and the entire front section under the windshield were leather. The model also offered a built-in Philips turntable for small-diameter records and radio. The XK150 S version was equipped with Thornton Power-Lok limited-slip differential. The costs for the roadster and convertible varied from $4,500 to $5,200. Overall, 2,265 roadsters, 2,672 convertible coupes, and 4,445 fixed-body coupes were produced throughout the whole production period which ended in 1960: the company replaced it with the legendary E-Type.

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Source: PostWarClassic

This release appeared in the directorial debut film Play Misty for Me by the talented Hollywood actor Clint Eastwood in 1971. This is a psychological thriller about sex, music, poetry, crime, and life and what it can become. Dave Garver (Eastwood) is an attractive disc jockey and poetry connoisseur who lives the life of a careless bachelor. He lives in a respectable house and drives a chic Jaguar XK150 dark blue convertible that fits perfectly into the lifestyle of a successful young man.

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The Jaguar brand’s global recognition was significantly influenced by the XK series. This range essentially catalyzed success for the British automaker in the aftermath of World War II. The remarkable triumph of the XK120 opened doors for the development of the more sophisticated XK140 model.

Source: Hemmings

After the resounding success of the XK120 introduced in 1948, the XK140 replaced its stellar predecessor in 1954 with an initial output of 190 hp, which was then increased to 210 hp. Interestingly, most of the produced cars found their owners in the USA, where they were especially popular. The engine of the exported models had a C-type head, 2-inch H8 carburetor, heavier torsion bars, and twin exhaust pipes. Smooth lines, a comfortable interior for taller drivers, and a 3.4-liter engine designed by William Haynes made it a sought-after trophy for style and speed lovers. Interestingly, in the USA the model was called the XK140 MC (in the UK it was designated as the XK140 SE).

The origins

Source: WallpaperUp

The 140th appeared in 1954 as an upgraded Jaguar XK120. It was more powerful (190 hp) with a new 3442 cm3 inline 6-cylinder engine, even though its maximum speed did not reach the declared 140 mph. Moreover, in addition to the standard version, the company also produced a high-performance modification – the XK140 SE (in the USA – XK140 MC), which was equipped with a 210 hp Jaguar C-Type racing engine with dual exhaust. Other differences from the XK120 included increased interior space on the same 102″ wheelbase, replacement of the lever telescopic shock absorbers, and the rack and pinion steering. The overdrive version received a 4-speed manual transmission. Later, in 1956, a   Borg Warner automatic transmission with a steering column selector was added to the options list. The design of the 140th also differed from its famous predecessor. It had one-piece front and rear bumpers with vertical fangs, turn signals, and a cast grille with fewer vertical bars. Jaguar offered three body types for this model: Open Two Seater (OTS), Drophead Coupe (DHC), and Fixed Head Coupe (FHC). The roadster featured a removable canvas top with plastic side windows, a leather-trimmed dashboard, and doors without external handles. The convertible and coupe had a wood veneer instrument panel and a small extra seat in the back. In total, the company sold 9051 XK140 from 1954-1957.

The 1954 model year

Source: Tudor and Black

The 1954 model debuted at the London Motor Show in October. As an improved version of the XK120, the 1954 release received better brakes, steering, and suspension. It was equipped with an improved (shortened and simplified) box-type Mark V chassis. To give the driver more room, the model’s front bulkhead had been moved forward 3 inches compared to previous editions of the XK series. Telescoping rear shocks instead of link arms increased the 1954 edition’s handling. The model also received 12-inch Lockheed drum brakes and a half-inch wider than the XK120 rims. Crossply Dunlop tires were standard, and Pirelli Cinturato radial wheels were available as an option. In technical terms, the 1954 edition received the latest version of the Jaguar six-cylinder inline engine, which, even after 6 years after launch, was competitive in the market. This engine had a cast iron block and an aluminum alloy head with two overhead camshafts. The transmission was through a Moss four-speed manual gearbox. Compared to the XK120, the 140th had several changes in appearance. The most obvious change was the larger bumpers. Moreover, it was full-sized at the front and a quarter of the bumper at the rear. Also, the 1954 car had larger doors, which made it easier to access the cab. Round, flashing turn signals were fitted above the front bumper, and new taillights were added at the rear. The grille was unchanged but cast as a single unit.

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Source: CarBuzz

Recently, the Beckhams’ offspring Brooklyn received a truly luxurious wedding gift from his celebrity parents. It was a completely restored 1954 Jaguar XK140, fitted with a massive electric engine instead of the original 190 hp 3.4-liter inline 6. The car was upgraded by Beckham’s EV company Lunaz.

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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.

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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:

• Steve McQueen: The actor, who was known for his love of fast cars, reportedly owned a Drophead Coupe.
• Frank Sinatra: The famous singer and actor owned a 1961 Roadster.
• Clark Gable: The Hollywood actor, who starred in films such as Gone with the Wind, was also an owner of a Jaguar XK150
• Paul Newman: The iconic actor, racing driver, and philanthropist was a fan of the XK150, and was known to have owned at least one.

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The classy and elegant XK140 was a continuation of the popular XK120 model. As the first production vehicle to reach a top speed of over 130 mph, it was a true milestone in automotive history.

Source: Classix.se

As a highly remarkable sports vehicle for its time, XK140 was widely admired for its performance, handling, and design. Some of the key reasons why the XK140 was so outstanding included its performance (it was one of the fastest production vehicles of its time), exceptional handling, beautiful design, and advanced technical equipment. Moreover, the model proved to be a very successful racing automobile that won several renowned racing competitions. The automobile also featured several luxury and performance options, such as power steering, overdrive, and disc brakes, which helped to make the roadster more attractive to buyers looking for a high-performance sports vehicle with a touch of luxury.

The origins

Source: Classic Digest

The XK140 appeared in 1954 as a replacement for XK120. The roadster was offered to customers in three versions: a coupe, a two-seater roadster, or a convertible, which was distinguished by the most luxurious interior trim. The new model, compared with its predecessor, received a 3.4-liter engine with increased power. In addition, the standard version developed a power of 190 hp. The automobile received rack and pinion steering, and the transmission could be chosen from three options: four-speed manual, automatic, and manual with overdrive in top gear. Externally, the model differed from the XK120 in its one-piece front and rear bumpers with vertical fangs, the presence of turn signals, and a cast radiator grille with fewer vertical bars. The convertible and coupe had a wood veneer instrument panel and a small extra seat in the back. In total,  9051 Jaguar XK140 were sold from 1954 to 1957.

The 1957 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

1957 was the final year of the production of the model. It was powered by a 3.4-liter inline 6 engine with an overhead camshaft design producing 210 horsepower. The powerful engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The exceptional performance of the roadster included a top speed of approximately 201km/h (125 mph). Moreover, the automobile could accelerate from 0-96 km/h (60mph) in around 8 seconds. The unibody construction, independent front suspension, and live rear axle helped to improve the car’s handling and ride quality. The use of rack-and-pinion steering also improved the car’s handling, making it more precise and responsive to driver inputs. This type of steering used a rack – a toothed bar, that run along the length of the steering column, and a pinion, which was a small gear that meshed with the rack. The car also featured a sleek and modern body design, with a long hood and short rear deck. The interior of the automobile was quite luxurious, with leather seats, and dashboard, and wood trim. Moreover, the 2,800 pounds roadster had a roomy cabin, and it was considered comfortable and well-appointed. In 1957, around 2,500 automobiles were produced. Overall, the model was notable for its performance, handling, and design, and it was widely admired for its capabilities. Even today, it is considered a true classic of the motoring industry, and an important part of the Jaguar heritage. A true representation of the golden age of British sportscars and a true milestone in automotive history the XK140 was replaced by the next and the last from the XK series – an XK150.

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Source: Classic Driver

The 1957 Jaguar XK140 was a classic sports car that had been featured in several films. Some of the more notable movies in which the XK140 appeared include the slapstick comedy “The Great Race” (1965), “Goldfinger” (1964) of the famous James Bond series, “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962), the crime caper film “The Italian Job” (1969), “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (1967). 

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The XK140 was one of the most iconic sports vehicles of its time. It offered a blend of style, performance, and luxury that was hard to beat. The model remained in production until 1957 when it was replaced by the even more advanced XK150.

Source: Hagerty

The XK140 quickly became a success and put Jaguar on the map as a manufacturer of high-performance sports vehicles. The advanced engine, combined with its stylish bodywork and excellent handling, made the automobile one of the most desirable automobiles of its time. This success was the foundation for Jaguar’s continued growth in the post-war years, leading to the introduction of the XK150 and later models that helped establish the brand as one of the premier automakers in the world.

The origins

Source: Pixels

The British legendary brand introduced the XK140 as a replacement for its successful XK120 model. The novelty turned out with enhanced performance and comfort features, making it more attractive to sports car enthusiasts of the time. The most notable change in the XK140 was its engine, which was upgraded to a 3.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that produced 190 horsepower. This was a significant improvement over the XK120’s engine, which produced only 160 horsepower. In addition to the increased power, the XK140 also had improved handling and suspension, thanks to the introduction of rack and pinion steering and the replacement of lever telescopic shock absorbers. The automobile was also equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission, and in 1956, an automatic Borg Warner transmission with steering column selector was added as an option. Externally, the model had a more modern and refined look compared to the XK120. It had a one-piece front and rear bumper with vertical fangs, turn signals, and a cast radiator grille with fewer vertical bars. In addition, the vehicle was offered in three body types: Open Two Seater (OTS), Drop Head Coupe (DHC), and Fixed Head Coupe (FHC). The roadster version was designed with a removable canvas top and plastic side windows, as well as a leather-trimmed dashboard and doors without external handles. The convertible and coupe models had a wood veneer instrument panel and a small extra seat in the back. The novelty was well-received by the market and was sold in 9,051 automobiles between 1954 and 1957. With its powerful engine, improved handling, and modern styling, it was one of the most popular sports cars of the 1950s.

The 1956 model year

Source: Classic Trader

The 1956 edition was a luxurious sports car that was designed for performance and comfort. It was equipped with a 3.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that was capable of producing up to 190 horsepower. This engine was mated to a 4-speed manual transmission that provided smooth and responsive shifting. The 1956 release also featured an advanced suspension system that consisted of a torsion bar front suspension and a live rear axle. This suspension setup provided excellent handling and a smooth ride, even on rough roads. Additionally, the car was equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, providing improved stopping power over the drum brakes of previous models. The interior of the XK140 was designed to provide a comfortable and refined driving experience. The seats were upholstered in leather and were designed to provide adequate support and comfort, even on long drives. The dashboard was finished in wood veneers and featured a full set of gauges that provided critical information to the driver. There was also ample storage space throughout the cabin, including a glove compartment, door pockets, and a trunk. In terms of technology, the XK140 was equipped with several features that were considered advanced for its time. These included an electric windshield wiper, an adjustable steering column, and an optional overdrive system that allowed for more relaxed highway cruising. The car also featured a lockable glove compartment, door locks, and a heating system that provided a comfortable driving environment even in inclement weather.

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Source: Classic Trader

Some famous films that featured the 1956 Jaguar XK140 include “Giant” (1956) starring James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor, “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1968) with Stevie McQueen, and “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome” (1985).

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Exclusive brands of classic cars excite our consciousness and cause the brightest dreams and the desire to conquer this world for the sake of owning them. One such outstanding vehicle is the famous Jaguar XK150 sports roadster.

Source: Supercars.net

In general, speaking about the XK150, it should be noted that in a sense it was overshadowed. Two reasons for that should be mentioned: first of all, the roadster was the last model of the famous XK series and was considered somehow old-fashioned and a “distortion” of the design of this series. Secondly, it was replaced by the spectacular E-type, which later became the epitome of sports cars. Even though the XK150 was outdated, several interesting improvements made it competitive. The main and most important update made to the car was the disc brakes on all wheels and the 3.8-liter version of the engine it got. Also, several exterior changes were made: the low door line on the XK120 and XK140 was ditched in favor of a higher waistline which made the car look heavier and more awkward. The radiator lining has also become much wider.

The origins

Source: Pendine Historic Cars

After the release of the XK120 and XK140, which were quite similar, it became necessary to continue the XK racing car series with something new, both in terms of power characteristics and in terms of design. The presentation of the new automobile took place on May 22, 1957. The car was called the Jaguar XK150 and was not like the previous models of its series, distinguished by many internal and external elements. However, initial sales were slower than previous models. In February 1957, the Browns Lane plant caught fire (shortly before the car was announced) and it took time to restore production capacity. The new racing car of 1957 received a complex curved single-piece windshield, the instrument panel, and the entire front area under the windshield became made of leather (on early versions of the roadster aluminum was partially used), and the interior space was expanded due to changes in the wings. The radiator grille and hood were also changed, and the glazing area was increased. Initially, the brand decided to present the roadster in only two bodies: Fixed Head Coupe and Jaguar XK150 DropHead Coupe, but in1958, the Jaguar XK150 Open Two Seater was added. Each body had some minor differences.

The 1957 model year

Source: Classic Driver

In 1957, as mentioned earlier, a coupe and convertible were available. It was the most luxurious vehicle of all produced automobiles with an XK index. The rounded radiator grille, and the high line of the wings markedly distinguished this model. Pete Davis, the American head of FIAT designers, noted that this automobile’s obedient and compact forms were more complete than other sports cars of the company. The lines of the automobile turned out without excessive muscularity and other stylistic exaggerations. Careful expensive finishes emphasized the direction of the model to compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300SL and BMW 507: in addition to the radio, a built-in Philips player for small-diameter phonograph records was offered. It cost £1940, while for the US market the price was $4800, and still, it was cheaper than competitors’ similar vehicles. However, the increased comfort and the ability to seat two small children behind were accompanied by an increase in weight: the roadster coupe weighed 130 kg more than the XK120. It was not surprising that with a base engine with 190 hp the coupe accelerated to 96 km/h in only 11 seconds. It was possible to order another version with an engine of the same volume, 3.4 liters, but with a power of 210 hp and increased torque. Jaguar engineers perfectly realized that customers welcome comfort, and would not want to put up with losses in dynamics. Thus, from 1959 they offered the sporty option, called the XK150 S. 

Did you know?

Source: Jaguarrules

The sex symbol of America, the famous Hollywood cowboy, and simply handsome Clint Eastwood was an avid car lover and an owner of this model. He always had a place in his garage for another trendy automobile to cherish. Not surprisingly, the model also found its place in the Eastwood collection.

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The post-war 50s turned out to be unusually successful for the British car industry. The famous company Jaguar Cars were no exception, which soon replaced the Jaguar XK120 with a faster and more modern XK140 model. 

Source: Historics Auctioneers

Until World War II the brand was just a small-scale British automaker. It earned worldwide success in the post-war years, after introducing the famous XK models. During the War, Jaguar enterprise (then called Swallow Sidecars), like many other automakers, was redesigned to produce various military equipment, which made the engineers get acquainted with the latest technologies in the engine building industry. Lucky for the manufacturer, in 1943, a design team led by William Hines began developing a completely new six-cylinder engine. As a result, in 1945, the Swallow Sidecars was renamed and took up a radical update of the entire model range with a new 3.4-liter straight-six engine, which was very advanced for that period. The characteristics of the new automobile also turned out to be very good: 160 hp for the road version and 180 for the racing. The newly developed automobile was presented at the first post-war London Motor Show in 1948. The debut of the new XK120 was a sensation. The sleek convertible instantly caught everyone’s attention with its streamlined bodywork made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloys.

The origins

Source: E-type Center Europe

In 1954, the modernized XK140 debuted. It became more spacious inside, and the engine power was increased to 190 hp for the basic version. In addition, a charged 210-horsepower SE version was introduced, and an automatic transmission appeared on the options list. Handling was improved by modified suspension and steering. For three years, about 8800 coupes and convertibles were produced. Meanwhile, the new D-Type model was shining on the racetracks. Its highlight was the ultra-light body of the “monocoque” type, which served as a power structure, to which the engine, transmission, and chassis were attached. The weight of the D-Type was only 840 kg and with an improved 3.4-liter 265-horsepower “six” it easily developed 280 km/h. 

The first XK140

Source: Gaurav Kumar

For conventional sports vehicle buyers, the new 1955 Jaguar XK140 model was introduced at the Earls Court Motor Show. The automobile was produced in three body styles: two-seat roadster (open two-seater), coupe (fixed head coupe), and convertible (drophead coupe). The last two had a 2+2 landing formula. The car was designed for comfortable trips, which was facilitated by an increase in the size of the cabin. The engine/gearbox was moved forward in the chassis by 3 inches (approximately 7.5 cm), which increased the interior mainly in legroom, and also increased the capacity of the luggage compartment. The 3.4-liter (3442 ccs) engine developed 190 HP using a modified cylinder head known as the “B” type. The “B” type heads used the larger bore valves from the “C” head in combination with the smaller intake port of the original XK cylinder head that was used on the Jaguar XK120 and was called the “A” type. The combination of larger valves with the XK120’s cylinder head accelerated the gas flow at low to mid-range rpm to improve fuel/air mixing and produced 190 hp instead of the standard 160 hp with an “A” head. With a C-type cylinder head, the engine developed 210 hp. This version was called the Jaguar XK140 S.E. In addition, the car was offered with three types of transmission: a four-speed manual, a manual with overdrive in top gear, and a three-speed automatic with a torque converter. The steering became rack and pinion, which increased the accuracy and information content of the control. In the UK, the car cost £1,700 and in the US, where about 80% of all Jaguar XK140s were shipped, the cost was $3,700. For the sake of American safety requirements, the car received more massive front and rear bumpers that go over the wings of the body. A total of 17,359 Jaguar XK140s of various modifications were produced during the period from October 1954 to January 1957.

Did you know?

Source: Gumtree

It’s impossible to be such an “outstanding gentleman”, and get rid of the race, right? From 1951 to 1953 XK120 won Le Mans twice. The traditions were continued by the 1955-1957 XK140  which won Le Mans three times. For such achievements, Queen Elizabeth II awarded William Lyons a knighthood! 

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