Introduced in 1948 at the Earl’s Court Motor Show in London, the Jaguar Super Sport was the company’s response to a post-war hunger for beautiful, racy cars. The Super Sport went into production in 1950 as the XK 120. Its stylish curves—clean, elegant, decidedly aerodynamic, and in no need of garish chrome enhancements—caught the eyes and hearts of automotive enthusiasts across Europe and the United States. The car also caught the attention of speed buffs: the “120” designation coincided with the car’s capability of reaching 120 mph, laying claim to being the world’s fastest production car at the time. In 1955, the milestone XK 120 evolved into the XK 140, and in the spring of 1957, the XK 150 was introduced. It stood as the most refined of the three XK versions. It has also been considered the sportiest, and its reputation has endured.

Improvements over the XK 140 were notable. While retaining the lauded XK styling, the 150 featured a wider body that increased interior space and comfort. A single-piece wrap-around windshield with subdued chrome trim replaced the older split screen and, along with a larger rear window, provided better all-around visibility. The wider radiator grille and higher beltline were also evident distinctions, as were the reworked bumpers. Mechanically, the XK 150 offered a significant performance and safety upgrade: four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, just the thing to bring the car down from the high speed its 3.4-liter engine generated.

According to the JDHT Certificate included with the car, this immaculate XK 150 Fixed Head Coupe was completed on 9 June 1958 and shipped to Jaguar Cars in New York City in July of the same year. As with many imported European cars at the time, it was titled by the following model year, 1959. The current owner reports, based upon anecdotal information, that the car was sold to a buyer in California, then to a gentleman in Louisiana, where it was fully restored in 2005 and completely repainted in model-proper Jaguar Satin Black in 2014.

Since the car was acquired two years ago, it has reportedly been driven fewer than 100 miles, been well maintained, and stored in the owner’s climate-controlled facility. The XK 150 is equipped with five factory knock-off wire wheels, including the spare, and rides on period-correct Coker Classic blackwall bias tires. The all-red interior is pristine, with the leather seats, carpets, headliner, door panels, and leather-trimmed instrument panel all meticulously cared for. The surprisingly spacious boot has a protective red liner and stores a complete tool kit with a Thor hammer. Owner’s manuals are also included.

In all, 9,395 XK 150s were built during the model’s 1957–1961 lifespan. Only 638 XK 150 fixed head coupes were produced in 1958. This impeccable example is show-worthy and presents a timely opportunity for someone who recognizes a true classic.