Germany vs UK — 1937 vs 1938
| 328 Roadster | SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,971 cc | 3,485 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 96 mph | 100 mph |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs | 2,632 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,667 mm |
| Length | 3,900 mm | 3,962 mm |
| Units Produced | 464 | 118 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $750,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
The 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1937 BMW 328 Roadster counters with lighter weight, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Germany engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1937 BMW 328 Roadster and 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 125 hp compared to 80 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 328 uses a Inline-6 OHV Cross-pushrod hemispherical 12V displacing 1,971 cc, while the Jaguar SS100 relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,485 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster edges ahead at 10.4 seconds versus 12.0 seconds. The BMW 328 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 802 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 118 units built, the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster is considerably scarcer than the BMW 328's 464 examples. On the collector market, the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.