The final evolution of Jaguar’s legendary XK series, the XK 150 was introduced in 1957. While the appealing basic XK formula was retained, changes were substantial throughout: A curved windscreen replaced the XK 120 and XK 140’s split two-piece assembly, and the car was larger and more comfortable inside. Initially offered with a 3.4-litre dual-overhead cam inline-six, “S”-model XK 150s produced a stated 250 hp thanks in part to triple SU HD6 carburettors. Disc brakes were standard, while an overdrive transmission was optional. All made for a capable, modern sports car.

As with its predecessors, the XK 150 was offered as a closed Fixed Head Coupé, a roadster, and a Drophead Coupé. The car presented here, chassis number 838065DN, is an example of that last body style, and one of just 104 XK 150 S 3.4 DHCs produced. Offering the open-air experience of the roadster but with a more isolated cabin, it provides the best of all possible worlds—all the more so because it has been beautifully restored and tastefully upgraded.

Built 19 January 1959, this left-hand drive car was delivered new to its first owner in California. It later joined an impressive private collection in Holland, where it remained for some years before being subject to a restoration said to have cost in excess of €300,000. The final stages of the restorative work were carried out by Guy Broad of Coventry; documentation accompanying the sale attests to the work performed by this renowned marque expert.

The car strikingly finished in blue with a red leather interior and black hood, with a louvered bonnet and bucket seats offering distinctive departures from the norm. During the car’s comprehensive overhaul, a Vicarage power steering system was installed; a sporty Nardi steering wheel completes the cockpit (though the original wheel accompanies the car).

Now complete, the end result is sensitive to the chassis’ numbers-matching originality, yet with subtle upgrades throughout. Subtle upgrades improve daily drivability and long-distance capability, making this rare XK 150 S 3.4 DHC particularly well-rounded and exceptionally desirable. The car is offered with photographs of its thorough restoration and documentation of work performed by Guy Broad, as a well as a JDHT certificate.