1961 | Jaguar XK 150 3.8 S FHC

The Jaguar XK150, the final evolution of the legendary XK sports car line (1957–1961), received its largest powerplant in October 1959: the 3.8-litre version of the XK twin-cam straight-six. This bored-out engine (87 mm bore, 106 mm stroke, 3,781 cc) , developed form the 3.4, produced 220 hp in standard tune (twin SU HD6 carbs) giving the XK150 a top speed of over 130 mph, a power and top speed that embarrassed many contemporary exotics. This very late car was registered in Wigan on March 14th 1961, on the eve of the sensational launch of the E-Type Jaguar in Geneva the following day.

Production of all XK150s ended in November 1960, with the very last 3.8-litre cars rolling off the Browns Lane line. These late examples were SE models with both overdrive and wire wheels. They are the most coveted XKs because they combine the widest, most modern XK body with a one-piece windscreen, thinner doors, more interior room, and four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, a first for a production sports car.

The last 3.8 XK150 wasn't just the end of a model, it was Jaguar waving goodbye to the 1950s with the 3.8 litre engine which would power the the E-Type already waiting in the wings when this car was brand new.




Our beautiful Pearl grey example has the most wonderful original interior. It's rather a shame that a web description doesn't allow you to smell the originality! With just 94,000 miles from new, there's a great deal of history including some interesting correspondence from a previous owner in Cornwall. The car was bought by her father in the early 1970s, not as everyday transport but to add to a small classic car collection. At the time it had done 65,000 miles from new. Her father rebuilt the engine in the early 1980s, replaced the petrol tank and fitted a stainless-steel exhaust system. After subjecting the car to a satisfactory full RAC report, the next owner took the car to Shropshire where it remained for 19 years. Whilst in Shropshire, the car was regularly used, competing in many runs and rallies with fellow Jaguar enthusiasts and there are several rally plaques in the history file. There are many old MOTSs showing that it covered 28000 miles during that ownership. Always kept garaged when not in use, there's a good file of invoice showing regular upkeep and wax oiling. A new set of chrome wire wheels were fitted in 2007 along with the Kenlowe fan and battery isolator switch. The last owner, based York has owned the car for the last seven years. He commissioned our company, Malton Coachworks to repaint the car that year and has continued to improve the car with major rechroming work and other detailed improvement works, invoices for which are in the car's history file for inspection. Over £20,000 has been spent on this work.




On the road, the car performs well, with a lusty growl for the 3.8 engine. It has an excellent Moss gearbox, a smooth overdrive and a quite rear axle. It really is a lot of fun to drive. This is the first XK we've had for many years which still has its original seats, carpets and headlining. Whilst not perfect, the patina of the interior is just irreplaceable. The period coach built fabric sunroof is a great bonus on a fixed-head coupe, prefect for semi-open summer motoring. The car comes complete with service manual and a substantial maintenance record.