Jaguar's series of XK sports cars used the remarkable twin overhead
camshaft engine that was first exposed to the public in 1948 in the new
XK120 two-seater, which took the motoring world by storm. For 1954 the
XK120 was replaced by the mildly restyled XK140 model, with an increase
in power, optional overdrive and a roomier cockpit. It was replaced in
1957 by the XK150. With disc brakes on all wheels, the option of engines
up to 265bhp and a completely new body, the XK150 was an extremely
competent performance car with more than a touch of glamour. This book
opens with an exposition of the background to the introduction of the
XK140, a key model because the XK120 was such a hard act to follow. Then
comes a full technical analysis of the new car, covering all aspects of
the chassis, running gear, engine and transmission. This sets the scene
for the coverage of the XK150. Major production changes during the
evolution of the two models are recorded, and production and sales
worldwide are analyzed in depth. The author also provides information on
prototypes and special-bodied cars.