If the MG TC began the post-war British sports car invasion of the U.S.A., Jaguar’s XK 120 was the second wave that consolidated and expanded the beachhead. The new Jaguar was an instant hit at its 1948 Earls Court Motor Show introduction, and it was so modern and so powerful that it immediately developed a devoted following among those who could indulge in the nearly $4,000 price at a time, which was quite extravagant, as the average annual salary was only $3,600.

The model was a consistent winner in the hearts of owners and on race tracks everywhere. It underwent continued development until the final variant, the XK 150, was introduced in 1957 as a 1958 model. This ultimate development of the XK line has the most power, comfort, and performance. It was also the first production car with four-wheel disc brakes, meaning that, for the first time, the Jag had stopping power equal to its horsepower. The XK 150 was also significantly restyled with a higher beltline and only a subtle dip ahead of the rear fender. Additionally, the windshield was now a single piece, and the distinctive Jaguar grille was retained but widened. The resulting profile brought the car up to date and hinted at its grand touring character.

According to its Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, a copy of which is on file, the XK 150 Drophead Coupe offered here was sold new by Jaguar Cars of New York to E.H. Erch of Central Valley, New York. Its owner reports that it was restored by McCabe Automotive Restoration of Mundelein, Illinois, with its engine rebuilt by Bill Bassett of Rhode Island, both well-known Jaguar specialists.

Both the head and block numbers of the engine match the JDHT certificate, confirming it to be fully original. While the original four-speed Moss overdrive gearbox has been replaced with a five-speed conversion unit, for ease in modern driving, the original numbers-matching gearbox does, indeed, accompany the car to its new owner. The body is finished in the exceptionally attractive shade of Cotswold Blue, and, importantly, the actual hue of the color is correct, rather than the “bright” blue often called this shade by restorers.

The car was recently driven by a knowledgeable Jaguar enthusiast and was described as being “the best XK 150 I have ever had the pleasure of driving; it sits cool in 95-degree traffic, has fans that kick on at the right time, and is generally wonderfully solid and ready to drive without worry. I have driven a lot of these and this one is wonderful.” It has recently undergone a general mechanical servicing, as well as detailing throughout, and is described as being an excellent car.