Banged up

This 1958 XK 150 FHC was once used as a banger racer. It suffered terrible damage, yet survived and has been restored to a fast and highly usable classic. We tell its unique story before trying it ourselves

RESTORATION XK 150 FHC

OF THE hundreds of cars that Jaguar World has featured over the years, none has a history quite as remarkable as this XK 150 fixed-head coupe. Once used as a banger racer, the car amazingly survived – just – and has recently been restored. Although a long way from a concours winner, it is a fast, good-looking and hugely enjoyable machine that gives more than a nod to its unique past.

Little is known about the early years of the XK 150 3.4 FHC with chassis number S824211DN, other than it was dispatched on 19 February 1958 and was originally in Old English White with a red interior. It’s thought the original engine was replaced in the Seventies for a 3.8-litre, originally fitted to a Mk IX, and was still on the