Not all the rally plates on the garage wall are from the XK 150 but probably the majority of those associated with competition events.

I’ve owned SSF 389, a 1958 ‘150S roadster since 1986; we’ve done a lot of competitions together. We lived in Texas for a few years and this XK 150 is one of the cars I brought home when we returned in 1988. Foolishly, when I started rallying, I changed the engine for a 3.8 E type unit. Wisely however, I retained the original 3.4 straight port. l’ve left the suspension more or less standard except for competition shocks and a stiffer roll bar. She wears 72 spoke, double laced wires with radials and once you know her limits she’s as well behaved as you would want. The brakes were a major weakness so they have been upgraded and now do a terrific job. With 35,000 hard rally miles however, she was beginning to show signs of wear and tear so in she went for a major refurbishment. I’ve had the original engine rebuilt and fitted and have taken the liberty of upgrading to a five-speed box. To aid cooling I’ve installed an aluminium radiator and an auxiliary puller fan behind the rad. She’s been repainted in her original Carmine red.

SFF and some of her trophies

In earnest through the Gavi Pass on the Liege-Rome-Liege.

I’m not as tough as I used to be so with draughty hoods, poor heating and iffy wipers the XKs are no longer practical daily drivers. But in good weather the ‘150 is a complete joy. While whizzing along with the top down through my local Sussex countryside I often wonder why I bother with anything else. She is a magnificent drive, certainly as good as anything else I own. I can’t imagine being without her.

The office, that was set up for rallying.  Now changed for a more conventional set up.

The Red Devil

Daughter Sarah on Easter vacs from university for the 1995 Highland Fling rally, the first we did in SSF.  It was a decidedly hairy first attempt and although Sarah played a blinder she never volunteered for another.

Ace navigator Tom Coldicott and me on a more gentle Claret & Classics event.

Revised interior following the refurbishment. Battery isolator still under the dash with a few extra switches.

Left: Much excitement and angst at the Spa start of the 2000 Liege  Rome Liege.

Right: Tom and Roger collect there converted prizes at the Rome gala dinner.