Lot 062: 1957 JAGUAR XK150 SE FIXED HEAD COUPE

The final iteration of the XK sportscar line and the last Jaguar to carry a separate chassis, the XK150 was introduced in May 1957. While its use of independent torsion bar front suspension, a 'live' leaf sprung rear axle and rack and pinion steering mirrored the practice of its XK140 predecessor the new model benefited from all round Dunlop disc brakes. Stylistically, it was brought up to date with less ostentatious curves and a larger, wrap-around single piece windscreen. The dashboard too was altered eschewing wood trim for padded leather. With the E-type still very much under development, Jaguar was keen to sustain the sporting reputation that five remarkable Le Mans victories had earned it (1951, 1953, 1955, 1956 and 1957). To this end, the XK150 could be had in both 3442cc and 3781cc guises and to normal, 'SE' or ultimate 'S' specification. With power outputs ranging from 190bhp for the base 3.4 up to 265bhp for the highly-tuned 3.8S performance was always an XK150 strong point. Equipped with four-speed manual gearboxes as standard, even the 'slowest' versions were reputed to be good for circa 130mph. Finished in white with black leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "very good" (four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox), "excellent" (3442cc engine, electrical equipment, wheels / tyres), "as new" (interior trim) or "perfect" (bodywork, paintwork) condition. Apparently supplied new by Jaguar Cars of New York, 'ASL 414' is said to have undergone an extensive rebuild at the hands of BAS Ltd, Carmichael Sports Cars and J.D. Classics etc (though, the latter firm were only responsible for converting it from left- to right-hand drive). A desirable 'Special Equipment' model as denoted by the 'S' prefix to its chassis number, this highly presentable XK150 is offered for sale with restoration bills / photos, MOT certificate valid until December 8th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax valid until December 2007