Germany vs UK — 1928 vs 1938
| SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz | SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | — | 170 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,065 cc | 3,485 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 10.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 119 mph | 100 mph |
| Weight | 3,748 lbs | 2,632 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,950 mm | 2,667 mm |
| Length | 4,370 mm | 3,962 mm |
| Units Produced | 33 | 118 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $750,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz excels in more power, higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster stands out for lighter weight, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz 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 — Germany versus UK. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 125 hp, a 175-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SSK uses a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged displacing 7,065 cc, while the Jaguar SS100 relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 3,485 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz claims a higher top speed at 119 mph compared to 100 mph. The Jaguar SS100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1116 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar SS100's 118 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Supercharged Sport Kurz commands a significant premium over the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.