1959 Jaguar XK150 Drophead Coupe

The XK120 was launched in 1948 and was an international sensation. The XK finally put Jaguar on the world stage and the racing derivatives would see the beginning of a hugely successful period for the company. The XK150 was the final incarnation of the XK and it appeared in May 1957. A more refined and capable machine than its predecessors, the 150 was easily identifiable by its higher scuttle and door line, wider grille and improved interior space. However, the XK150 retained much of the mechanical layout of the XK140 including the same 3.4 litre DOHC Jaguar straight-six, which developed 180bhp at 5750rpm. As before with the XK range, standard (steel wheel) and special equipment models were available, but a bewildering range of models was to evolve. Firstly, in 1958, the 'S' model was announced, equipped to special equipment specification and with a more powerful engine, though still of 3.4 litre capacity. Late in 1959 further options became available with the introduction of the 3.8 litre engine and the XK150 was available not only in 3.4 litre versions, but two versions (normal and "S") of the 3.8 variety.

A total of 2,200 XK 150 Drophead Coupe models were made, of which 85% were sold to America, 10% to the rest of the world and only 5% to the UK Market. This original right-hand drive XK150 Drophead Coupe was first registered on 13th July 1959 in Coventry. It is the 420th example of only 622 home market cars built. The original log book and current V5 registration detail only three previous owners from new, beginning with a Mr D. Thornberry until 1973. The present owner, Mr J.Davenport of Headley, is a leading figure in the XK world and was the chairman/founding member of the XK register and a director of the Jaguar Drivers' Club. Discovered by the vendor in 2004 as an unfinished restoration project, Mr Davenport used his years of contacts and experience to bring XKV 520 back to the road.

The interior seats and panels were covered in quality leather and a brand new mohair hood fitted with mahogany frame. The wiring was stripped, rewired and the original engine was started and set up properly. A new stainless steel exhaust was purchased, along with bumpers, chrome trim and new windscreen. This lovely XK150 was finally completed in 2005 and there is a photographic record of the car as work begun and throughout the rebuild, with bills and receipts for parts purchased. As a testament to the quality of the vendor's restoration, the car has been featured many times on the Autoglym stand at events across the UK.

Finished in the most elegant colour combination of blue with grey interior, XKV 520 is supplied with a huge history file complete with bills, receipts, photographs and correspondence between previous owners. Buyer's should be aware that the original registration, XKV 520, is transferable and is included in the sale of this lot.