UK vs UK — 1958 vs 1957
| Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) | XKSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 43 hp | 262 hp |
| Torque | 50 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 20.5 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 83 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 22.5 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,444 lbs | 2,249 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 48,999 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $1,795 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Jaguar XKSS with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) versus the 1957 Jaguar XKSS. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 262 hp compared to 43 hp, a 219-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey Sprite uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 948 cc, while the Jaguar XKSS relies on a Inline-6 DOHC (XK) with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 20.5 seconds. The Austin-Healey Sprite carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 805 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey Sprite's 48,999 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS commands a significant premium over the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.