45k Original Miles: 1959 Jaguar XK150 OTS

It is sometimes challenging to find the right words to describe a classic. Take this 1959 Jaguar XK150 OTS as a prime example. Its presentation is superb, and its mechanical specifications promise excellent performance. If I were to sum up this car with two words, they would be “simply stunning.” This Jag isn’t cheap, but it is ideal for enthusiasts wishing to treat themselves to a special ownership experience. With 45,000 miles on the clock, Jaguar’s legendary reliability means that it should offer its future owners years of classic motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the XK150 listed here on Craigslist in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada. The seller set their price at C$88,000, which equates to approximately US$64,200.

Jaguar introduced the XK150 in 1957 as its successor to the XK140. Although visually similar to its predecessor, the “150” was substantially reengineered to improve interior space and engine bay access. This  OTS (Open Two-Seater, or Roadster) presents superbly in Red. Jaguar offered two similar shades during the production life, and since they are hard to separate, I’m unsure which one this is. It shines extremely nicely, and with arrow-straight panels, there is not much about the car’s cosmetic condition that warrants criticism. With no evidence of significant corrosion in areas like the engine bay, the indications are that this classic is rust-free. The trim and beautiful wire wheels are excellent, with no evidence of pitting or other problems. For those wishing to have something extra to boast about, it is worth noting that Royal Doulton manufactured the crystal clear windshield. Other marques utilized glass from the same company, although it remains one of those fascinating and unusual facts in the classic world.

Lifting the hood reveals a DOHC 3.4-liter six, producing 190hp and 203 ft/lbs of torque. The motor was essentially the same one the company utilized in the XK140, but featured an updated cylinder head. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. The seller indicates that this Jag has a known ownership history and shows 45,300 miles on its odometer. The engine bay looks exceptionally clean for its age, and doesn’t flatter to deceive. The XK150 runs and drives extremely well, with no identified mechanical issues.

If this XK150’s exterior is spectacular, its interior is no less so. Trimmed in beautiful Red leather, it is almost faultless. The seat bases exhibit typical aging leather wrinkles, but no wear. The carpet is equally clean, and the dash is magnificent. The White leather surrounding the gauges isn’t original, but it is a striking feature. The buyer receives an AM radio, but I would probably never switch it on, because I would never tire of the tune emanating from under the hood.

Classic Jaguars tend to polarize opinions. Some enthusiasts feel passionate about them, admiring the styling and the engineering hidden below the surface. However, others are unmoved, failing to understand what the hype is about. If you fall into the former category, you may be irresistibly drawn to this low-mile beauty. Jaguar built only 2,265 examples of the OTS during its four-year production run, making it the rarest of the group. Therefore, if you long to park a relatively rare British sports car in your garage, this 1959 XK 150 could be your admission ticket to that club.