USA vs UK — 1935 vs 1938
| 851 Speedster Supercharged | SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 230 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,587 cc | 3,485 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.5 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,632 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,251 mm | 2,667 mm |
| Length | 5,207 mm | 3,962 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 118 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $750,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged excels in more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster stands out for quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged against the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus UK. The 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 125 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auburn 851 uses a Inline-8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,587 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 15.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.