1959 Jaguar XK150SE Fixed Head Coupe

Unusually for a motor car manufacturer, Jaguar began life as the Swallow Sidecar Company, founded in 1922 by Messers Walmsley and Lyons. By 1926, they had progressed to coachbuilding, initially producing the 1927 Austin Seven Swallow.  S.S. Cars Ltd was launched in 1934 by William Lyons after success using a Standard chassis and engine as the basis for his burgeoning range. However, the not-so-pleasing wartime connotation meant that in 1945, the company was renamed Jaguar Cars Ltd and became one of Britain’s foremost and respected sporting motor car manufacturers.

The XK line arrived in 1948 with the XK120 and proved to be highly successful for Jaguar. Succeeding the XK140 was the 150 of 1957, which used the same chassis type, but with all-new body panels, a wrap-around windscreen and a wider body. The powerful 3781cc straight-six SE engine benefitted from a ‘B-Type’ cylinder head and twin SU carburettors, and brakes were improved and fitted with four-wheel Dunlop discs. Production of the XK ceased in 1960.

This home market, right hand drive, matching numbers Fixed Head Coupe SE model, with a 3.4 engine and twin carburettors, was the subject of a major professional restoration carried out over several years and completed in 2011. The body assembly was lifted and the chassis checked (although we understand that it was in good, sound condition and has apparently never been welded) and rustproofed. The body assembly was then refitted to the chassis with new packing shims and to this day, the panel gaps are excellent and the doors close nicely – a credit to the restorer. All body panels are original, apart from replacement sill panel assemblies, door pillars and hinge boxes. The original colour of Indigo Blue remains in good order after a respray in 2010 and the rustproofing has clearly paid off as the chassis and underside also remain good. A full retrim (including the fitting of new headlining) was carried out at the time of restoration and importantly, a new wiring loom was fitted, together with a master switch, electronic ignition and a Kenlowe fan. A ‘spin-on’ oil filter system was also installed, as well as a new radiator and hoses, and a stainless steel exhaust system. On a recent road test, your correspondent can confirm that the XK performs as one would expect, with power transferred via the limited slip-diff.

DVCA sold 676 HPP to the late Paul Channon in June 2011. Paul was an enthusiastic driver throughout his motoring career; in the 1950s, he successfully competed in the Monte Carlo Rally, driving Sunbeam Talbots and Rileys. He rallied and road raced a variety of cars after that time, but is best known for competing in his AC Cobra for several decades. The XK150 was to be Paul’s final ‘toy’ and was used for the occasional gentle road rally. Ownership of the Jaguar has now passed to his daughter.

The extensive history file accompanying the motor car contains a Jaguar factory service manual (covering all XK models), a Jaguar DVD of parts and service manuals from 1948-61, a handbook (with maintenance chart), wiring diagrams, correspondence, numerous invoices from the aforesaid professional restoration, the V5C registration certificate and a ‘Jaguar World’ restoration manual. 

Auction Date: Wednesday 23 November 2016