1959 Jaguar XK 150 3.4 S

The Jaguar XK150 “S” Open Two-Seater represents the ultimate evolution of Jaguar’s legendary XK line and is now firmly established as one of the most desirable post-war British sports cars. By 1959, the XK range had reached its technical peak just as the E-Type was about to be unveiled. Only 44 right-hand-drive XK150 3.4 “S” Roadsters were ever produced, making this model exceptionally rare.

Unlike the Fixed Head and Drop Head Coupés, which were principally grand touring cars, the Open Two-Seater was the pure sporting expression of the XK150. With its hood neatly concealed beneath the rear deck, the car retains a beautifully clean, uninterrupted profile — a design that remains striking and purposeful more than six decades later.

In “S” specification, performance was transformed. The 3.4-litre XK engine produces approximately 245 bhp, fed by triple 2” SU carburetors and delivered through the four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. This same engine architecture went on to power the original E-Type. In period, the XK150S Roadster was a true supercar, developed during the height of Jaguar’s international racing success — and its performance remains deeply impressive even by modern standards.

This example was dispatched to Henley's of London on 25th July 1959 finished in its original and still-presented color scheme of Carmen Red with Biscuit interior and Sand hood. The chassis, engine and body numbers all match the accompanying Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate.

The car benefits from several important enhancements, including a stainless-steel exhaust system and stainless-steel bumpers, both highly desirable upgrades that improve durability while retaining the correct appearance. The engine was comprehensively rebuilt in 2020 at a cost of £16,000 by J&E Engineering Services, with the invoice on file.

The car has remained in the same family ownership for 47 years, including the last 31 years in Ireland. While the history file is not extensive, the key mechanical work, long-term ownership and matching-numbers status make this an exceptionally attractive example.

With the current open-market values for genuine RHD XK150 3.4 S Open Two Seaters now firmly in the upper six-figure bracket for the best examples, this car represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Jaguar’s most important and usable post-war sports cars.