Jaguar XK 150S 3.4 OTS – British beauty in concours condition

Some classics are more than just a car. They embody an era, a design and technology. Take this 1959 Jaguar XK 150S 3.4 OTS. An open two-seater, sky blue, fully restored but true to its origins. A classic that looks like it just rolled off the estate at Earls Court.

The XK 150 was launched in 1957 as the successor to the XK 140. Jaguar had been setting the tone in the sports car world with the XK series since 1948. The XK 120 had surprised the world with its speed and beauty, the XK 140 built on that, and the XK 150 became the most mature of the trio. Sharper bodywork, wider grille, panoramic windscreen: the car was ready for the sixties, but without losing its British chic.

The S version—and that's what makes this example so special—was the sportiest variant. With its 3.4-liter inline-six, fitted with three SU carburetors, the engine produced 250 hp. For the late 1950s, that was pure top-level sport. Jaguar claimed a top speed of 215 km/h. Not that owners are trying to achieve that these days, but it's nice to know it's possible.

A special feature of this XK 150 is its aluminum bodywork. Although most XKs were made of steel, there are versions with extensive aluminum parts, which gives the car a lower mass: 1.270 kilograms in this case. Combine that with the manual gearbox and you have an elegant roadster that still feels playful and fast.

And then there's the interior... it's not just been restored, but treated with respect. The original dashboard is in pristine condition, with the chrome and nickel accents still gleaming. The blue leather upholstery looks like new, yet exudes that characteristic patina that only true classics possess. Nothing has been overdone or polished; what's original has been carefully preserved and what needed to be done has been lovingly addressed.

The XK 150 also marked a transition. Shortly after its introduction, Jaguar began work on the car that would overshadow them all: the E-Type. And yet, the XK 150 has carved out a niche for itself. Less flamboyant perhaps, but understated class is often more timeless than the hype of the moment.

This example demonstrates why the XK 150S is still coveted by collectors and enthusiasts today. Not only because of its rarity – only a few thousand S variants were ever built – but also because it embodies the perfect blend of classic beauty, sporting performance and English refinement.