From the raw, elemental XK120 of 1948 that laid the foundation for a famous winning streak at Le Mans, Jaguar’s XK theme evolved just as rapidly on the road through the XK140 and on to the XK150 of 1958, which offered refinement and comfort on another level but still with the genuine sporting credentials that were by then a Jaguar hallmark. A measure of the XK150’s breadth of appeal is perhaps best expressed by the fact that the roster of owners ranged from Mike Hawthorn, who became Britain’s first Formula 1 world champion in 1958, to starlet Anita Ekberg. This 1958 3.4L roadster is also something of a star, shown at JCNA events and having earned multiple accolades on the concours field as testament to its extensive, 2,400-hour, body-off, bare-metal restoration completed by marque specialist Lloyd Gillespie and estimated to have cost more than $230,000—a sum few other XK150s will have benefited from. Originally fitted with a BorgWarner automatic transmission, as indicated by the BW serial number suffix, it now sports a 4-speed manual unit, which is all the better to enjoy its considerable potential. For though the XK150 was somewhat heavier than its XK forbears, the impressive 120 MPH-plus performance was preserved thanks to progressive engine development, resulting in 210 HP output from the classic twin overhead-cam straight-6, a considerable hike over the 160 HP produced by the first XK120s. In fact, road tests of the 3.4L XK150 returned a top speed of 124 MPH, with 60 MPH coming up in 8.5 seconds. Another key development was the use of all-around disc brakes, a Le Mans spin-off that not even Ferrari road cars of the period featured. Well-being was greatly improved, too, compared with earlier XK iterations, with a one-piece wraparound wind-screen and more spacious interior; roll-up windows replaced the flimsy side-screens of early models, and the removable roadster soft top also stowed neatly behind the seats. This XK150 roadster is accompanied by recent receipts, a tool roll, a jack and a service manual. It also comes with miscellaneous awards and plaques, which the vendor has judged, quite properly, to be integral to the car, along with the original steering wheel for concours events.
