Jaguar XK150 3.4 FHC (barn find)

History

The final version of the XK sports car line and the last Jaguar to carry a separate chassis, the XK150 was introduced in May 1957. Mechanically very similar to its XK140 predecessor, with independent torsion bar front suspension, live leaf-sprung rear axle and rack-and-pinion steering, it had much improved stopping power thanks to all-round Dunlop disc brakes.

Wider and roomier than its predecessor, it also had more modern lines, a bigger one-piece windscreen and a padded leather dashboard in place of the wood in the 140. Initially only available in 3.4-litre form, it was joined by a 3.8-litre in 1958. A total of 9,382 cars were produced before production finally ceased at the end of 1960 to make way for the new E-Type.

First registered in August 1960, this particular 3.4-litre fixed head coupe is said to have been last on the road in 1973 – a tax disc that is still on the windscreen would appear to confirm this. We are told that it was driven into storage in a large brick warehouse and abandoned there until it was recovered earlier this year.

As you can see from the photos, it is now in a severely dilapidated condition and in need of total restoration. According to the V5C which accompanies it, the car has only had one former keeper but there is no other documentation with the car to confirm this.

We have checked the car with the XK Registry and the engine, chassis and registration numbers given on the V5C are correct for the car, as is the overdrive gearbox. The seats, back bumper and some trim parts are missing.