1959 Jaguar XK150 3.8 S Fixedhead Coupe

The XK120 was launched in 1948 and was an international sensation. Succeeding developments of the XK finally put Jaguar on the world stage and the racing derivatives would be instrumental in the beginning of a hugely successful period for the company. The XK150 was the final incarnation of the XK and 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, it retained much of the mechanical layout of the XK140 sharing the same 3.4-litre, DOHC Jaguar straight-six.

The XK150 S was introduced in 1958 and is widely regarded as the culmination of Jaguar's engineering achievements with the XK series. Indeed, the specification of the XK150 S undoubtedly paved the way for the E-Type that replaced it in 1961. The "S" boasted triple SU carburettors, a revised Harry Weslake-modified cylinder head and a manual four-speed overdrive transmission. Performance was seriously impressive for 1958 with an enhanced output of 250bhp and a top speed of 132 mph. Engine sizes were usually 3.4 litres but a much rarer 3.8 litre emerged towards the end of production. In total, a mere 150 3.8 "S" Fixedhead Coupes rolled off the production line, of these a reported 111 were right-hand drive.

This exceptionally rare, original right-hand drive 3.8 S Fixedhead Coupe is finished in red with black leather interior and has lived a truly fascinating existence. 6007 RE was extensively raced during the 1970s and 1980s in the UK, most notably by respected historic racer Dave Preece, who was best known for his exploits in Aston Martins at Le Mans. In the photos attached, he is seen racing the car at Silverstone and Brands Hatch for Jaguar team Oldham and Crowther.

During the 1990s, this important XK150 was owned by a Doctor, who used it for road touring and endurance rallies, and more recently, the car has been raced by respected Jaguar specialist Neil Fender in Malta last year. The engine and running gear are reported to be strong and the car has recently been serviced and gone through by Guy Broad. In addition, the car was subject to a bare metal repaint in 2015 and the paintwork is in lovely condition.

The vendor would like the car to go to a good home, where it will be driven and enjoyed and Fender Broad have also offered to help the new owner get FIA papers for the car. We have no doubt that chassis number TS825056DN would take pride of place amongst any Jaguar collection in the world. Supplied with a number of old invoices and previous MoT certificates, it would be fantastic to see the car back on the UK historic racing scene in 2017.