1958 Jaguar XK150SE Fixed Head Coupe

Jaguar’s XK line arrived in 1948 with the XK120 and proved to be highly successful for the company. Succeeding the XK140 was the 150 of 1957, which used the same chassis type, but with all-new body panels, a wrap-around windscreen, a wider body, and an improvement to the braking system with four-wheel Dunlop discs. Production of the XK ceased in 1960.

A motor body repair specialist by trade, the current custodian purchased this example in 1992 and set about completing a major photographic restoration, which included a series of upgrades. Most notably, the Jaguar was equipped with a 3.8 litre engine and triple SU 2” carburettors; added to that was an electric cooling fan, a Moto-Lita wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a walnut veneer dashboard.

The interior was retrimmed in elegant light tan leather with matching carpets and a new West of England cloth headlining. The chassis was repaired as appropriate. The bare metal body restoration involved the replacement of numerous panels and a respray in Jaguar Carmen Red. Both windscreens were replaced.

The mechanical aspect was not overlooked; the braking system was overhauled with most components replaced, the manual gearbox was reconditioned, a new stainless steel exhaust system was installed and the steering and suspension were checked and rebuilt with numerous new parts. A new wiring loom was fitted with new electrical units, and the XK is sensibly equipped with an immobiliser. The brightwork was either replaced or rechromed, including new chrome wire wheels for the motor car.

Indeed, the list of new parts used in the restoration is almost endless and maintenance has continued to a high standard since; recent attention has included the fitting of a pair of new tyres. It is worth noting though that recently the dual water temperature / oil pressure gauge has given trouble and will require replacement.

With the inevitable passing of years and a lack of opportunity to enjoy the XK150, the owner has reluctantly decided to part with his cherished motor car and has delivered it to DVCA for the auction from his home in Kent.

The vast history file includes the aforesaid photographs, the schedule of replacement parts used in the restoration (which the vendor has never totalled up!), a winners certificate for the best classic Jaguar in show at the London Classic Car Show at Ascot in 1997, the VE60 registration book, the V5 document, the current V5C, several MOT test certificates and a large quantity of invoices. A battery conditioner is also supplied.

Auction Date: Thursday 2 March 2017