The between the modern XK and its namesake from the past are separated by five decades, during which the latter became highly appreciated among classic car enthusiasts. Thus the high price that nudges half a million bucks…

The Jaguar XK150 Drophead Coupe was produced in just 264 units throughout its lifetime, so spotting one on the road is close to impossible.

This particular car came to life back in January 1960 and it was shipped to Jaguar’s main dealership in New York, USA. This is where its first owner, J M Boscoe, came to take it to Sacramento, California, where it spent some time and was driven for 40,000 miles (64,374km) until it was sold.

Its new owner took it to Nevada where it remained until 2009, when it was discovered completely intact and with the same figure on its odometer.

In the same year, the vendor brought it back to the UK, for a thorough examination, which revealed that the Drophead Coupe was completely original. However, to a few signs of corrosion meant it underwent a bare metal restoration, which returned it to its former glory. During the restoration process its engine, a 3.8-liter rated at 220hp, was stripped down and rebuilt.

Work on the left-hand drive model was carried by MRC Restoration and the interior was re-trimmed by Suffolk and Turley of Coventry. Before finding a new owner, the classic Jag won several concours events.

The Jaguar XK150 is undeniably one of the world’s fastest and safest cars. It is quiet and exceptionally refined mechanically, docile and comfortable… we do not know of any more outstanding example of value for money“, wrote Autocar back in the day.

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