Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar XK150

Built between: 1957-1961, number sold: 9,385, cool cat rating: 4/5

Jaguar

The third and final incarnation of the original XK concept was launched in May 1957. The pretty XK150 was available in fixed-head coupé and drophead convertible bodystyles, with the roadster initially for export only, but all three versions were subtly modified from their predecessors.

Slightly more grown-up and less sporty than the XK120 and 140, the 150 had a wider grille, taller waistline and slab-sided flanks, giving a more muscular appearance. The 3.4-litre engine was offered in three states of tune, with a trio of transmissions: four-speed manuals with or without overdrive, plus the Borg-Warner three-speed automatic.

Advertisement - Article continues below

In 1959, a 220bhp 3.8-litre version was introduced, while the S produced a claimed 265bhp. Although standard cars had disc rims and drum brakes, virtually all sold were ‘special equipment’ variants with wire wheels and all-round disc brakes. The latter went some way to solving the earlier XKs’ reputation for poor stopping power and brake fade. Even so, with the end of the decade approaching, the XK150 was becoming dynamically outclassed.

But with total XK production totalling 30,000 cars – 9,385 of which were XK150s – this sports car had been an undoubted success. The last examples were sold in 1961, overlapping with the new E-Type. The swinging Sixties had arrived and the world was moving on. Fortunately, so was Jaguar.

It’s easy to see why the XK is now a highly sought after classic. Our lovely white drophead, built in August 1958, is a fine example of this beautiful Jaguar sports car.

Details

WHY: Muscular final incarnation of the xk line-up proved to be a fitting farewell to the fifties.

For an in-depth buyer's guide on the Jaguar XK150 from Classic and Performance Car click here...

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,848 off RRP*Used from £7,250
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,568 off RRP*Used from £12,196
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £6,040 off RRP*Used from £12,900
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £4,463 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

It's only a matter of time before Jaguar Land Rover builds a factory in the USA
Opinion - Jaguar

It's only a matter of time before Jaguar Land Rover builds a factory in the USA

Mike Rutherford thinks Jaguar's 'Reimagine' strategy will result in the company exploring further opportunities in the USA
Opinion
25 May 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Seal the deal on this BYD electric saloon for just £289 a month
BYD Seal - front

Car Deal of the Day: Seal the deal on this BYD electric saloon for just £289 a month

The BYD Seal is a seriously tempting Tesla Model 3 rival, especially at this price. It’s our Deal of the Day for 26 May
News
26 May 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Nissan’s X-Trail is a do-it-all seven-seat hybrid SUV for only £235 a month
Nissan X-Trail - front corner left

Car Deal of the Day: Nissan’s X-Trail is a do-it-all seven-seat hybrid SUV for only £235 a month

If the Qashqai is too small for you, then the larger X-Trail is a fine alternative. It’s our Deal of the Day for 25 May
News
25 May 2025