Introduced in May 1957, the new XK 150 built on the popular XK 120 and XK 140 before it, marking the third and final evolution of the brilliant XK series from Jaguar. While continuing to use a shortened Mark V chassis and bearing a strong resemblance to its predecessors, the XK 150 was slightly wider and featured a higher beltline replacing the trendy cut-down doors of the XK 120 and XK 140. A wider front grille improved engine cooling and a single-piece curved windscreen improved forward visibility. At launch, the XK 150 was available in both Fixed Head and Drophead Coupe body styles, with the Open Two-Seater roadster following in March 1958.

A clear case of racing improving the breed, the XK 150 was Jaguar’s first road model equipped with Dunlop four-wheel disc brakes, which played a key role in the company’s second victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the C-Type in 1953. A 3.4-liter version of Jaguar’s already-legendary XK inline six-cylinder engine powered the XK 150 until late 1959. A more powerful 3.8-liter version was introduced toward the end of the model’s production and these rare variants are the most desirable to collectors.

This original left-hand-drive XK 150 Drophead Coupe completed production on 26 February 1960 and was dispatched on 11 March 1960 via Jaguar Cars, New York to its first owner in America, a Mr. C. Wallace. Originally finished in Pearl Grey over Red trim with a Black soft-top, it is now finished in the lovely combination of silver over black leather with a black Haartz soft-top. Notably, the car does retain its original body and numbers-matching 3.8-liter engine with dual SU carburetors.

Although its earlier history is unknown, the car is understood to have been fully restored in 2006 and later acquired by West Coast collector Paul Petrovich that same year. He would retain the car for 15 years and have it fully repainted, much of the chrome renewed, and some mechanical refurbishment performed in 2018. That year, the car is said to have participated in the prestigious Pebble Beach Tour D’Elegance across the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur, a testament to its fastidious upkeep.

Benefitting from a steady regimen of proper maintenance and mechanical sorting, this attractive XK 150 3.8-Litre Drophead Coupe is accompanied by a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Production Record Trace Certificate and a selection of work orders and service receipts. With its balance of sharp handling, gutsy power, and vastly improved passenger comfort, the 150 is the driving enthusiast’s pick of the XK range. Featuring great colors and delivering immense character and presence, this sophisticated Jaguar is more than worthy of continued preservation and appreciation, just as it has enjoyed under prior ownership.