UK vs UK — 1959 vs 1954
| SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 | 100 S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 140 hp | 132 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 160 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,548 cc | 2,660 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.9 sec | 10.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 123 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 17.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,248 lbs | 2,183 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,654 | 3,924 |
| Original MSRP | $3,700 | $2,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 offers quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S counters with stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 and 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 producing 140 hp and the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S delivering 132 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Daimler SP250 Dart uses a V8 OHV displacing 2,548 cc, while the Austin-Healey 100 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 2,660 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 edges ahead at 8.9 seconds versus 10.3 seconds. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.