Germany vs UK — 1956 vs 1957
| 507 | XK150 S 3.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,168 cc | 3,781 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 7.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 133 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 3,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,480 mm | 2,591 mm |
| Length | 4,380 mm | 4,470 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 888 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | $5,300 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $400,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Jaguar XK150 S 3.8 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 BMW 507 offers greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Germany and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1956 BMW 507 versus 1957 Jaguar XK150 S 3.8 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1957 Jaguar XK150 S 3.8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 265 hp compared to 150 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 507 uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,168 cc, while the Jaguar XK150 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,781 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XK150 S 3.8 edges ahead at 7.3 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XK150's 888 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1957 Jaguar XK150 S 3.8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.