Registration No: XDA 280
Chassis No: S827170DN
MOT: Exempt

• The subject of an extensive restoration by marque specialists including Fender & Broad
• Matching chassis and engine numbers
• Believed to be 1 of just 623 right-hand drive examples
• JDHT certificate, collection of invoices and current V5C document
• Fitted with power steering

The final iteration of the XK sportscar line and the last Jaguar to carry a separate chassis, the XK150 was introduced in May 1957. While its use of independent torsion-bar front suspension, a 'live' leaf-sprung rear axle and rack-and-pinion steering mirrored the practice of its XK140 predecessor, the new model benefited from the option of all-round Dunlop disc brakes (though, in practice very few - if any - cars were delivered with drum brakes). Stylistically, the newcomer was brought up-to-date with less ostentatious curves and a larger, wrap-around single piece windscreen. The dashboard too was altered eschewing wood trim for padded leather. With the E-type still very much under development, Jaguar was keen to sustain the sporting reputation that a remarkable five Le Mans victories (1951, 1953, 1955, 1956 and 1957) had earned it.

Initially powered by a 3442cc derivative of the marque's race-proven DOHC straight-six engine, the XK150 could be had in Fixed-Head Coupe, Open Two-Seater (Roadster) or Drophead Coupe guises. More expensive than the other bodystyles, the soft-top coupe boasted occasional rear seats and a fully lined hood. Ticking the 'Special Equipment' box on the order form resulted in the following upgrades: B-type cylinder head, overdrive, twin-exhaust system and wire wheels. With a claimed 210hp on tap, the 'SE' 3.4 Litre cars were reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and 124mph. Total right-hand drive XK150 Drophead Coupe production is thought to have amounted to just 663 cars (for both 3.4 litre and 3.8 litre variants). Unsurprisingly, survivors are highly prized by collectors.

According to its accompanying Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate, chassis S827170DN was built on 16th July 1958 as a desirable Special Equipment model complete with overdrive. Factory finished in the handsome combination of Cornish Grey with Red leather upholstery, the Jaguar was despatched to distributor Charles Attwood of Wolverhampton the following month. First road registered as ‘XDA 280’ in the same city, the XK150 was supplied new to local resident J.D. Smith Esq. Taken off the road at some stage, the Drophead Coupe was classified as a ‘barn find’ when the vendor bought it from the Classic Car Lab of Leeds in 2014. Subsequently treated to an extensive five-year restoration with attention paid to its bodywork, paintwork, chassis, engine, four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim and brightwork, the Jaguar boasts such niceties as a high capacity alloy radiator and Kenlowe fan plus it is fitted with power steering. Entrusted to renowned Jaguar XK specialist Guy Broad in 2019-2020, the 2+2-seater benefited from additional brake and suspension work (polybushing) etc. Sparingly used save for several runs to North Wales since its refurbishment was completed, ‘XDA 280’ remains highly presentable. Most recently maintained by SVW Ltd of Worcester, they have further refined the Drophead Coupe. A ‘home market’ car that pleasingly retains its original 3.4 litre engine, this decidedly handsome Jaguar is worthy of close inspection. Offered for sale with continuation green logbook, V5C Registration Document, Heritage Certificate, restoration photos and numerous invoices etc.

For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760