Jaguar SS100

vs

Mercedes-Benz SSK

UK vs Germany — 1936 vs 1928

Jaguar SS100 (1936)
Mercedes-Benz SSK (1928)
Specifications
SS100 3.5 LitreSSK Count Trossi Special
Horsepower125 hp300 hp
Torque175 lb-ft
Engine Size3,485 cc7,065 cc
0-60 mph10.4 sec
Top Speed100 mph146 mph
Weight2,464 lbs3,748 lbs
Wheelbase2,692 mm2,950 mm
Length3,962 mm4,250 mm
Units Produced31433
Value (Excellent)$800,000$30,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity9/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre brings lighter weight, better value to the table, and the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special answers with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre versus 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special 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 Jaguar SS100 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 3,485 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged with 7,065 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special claims a higher top speed at 146 mph compared to 100 mph. The Jaguar SS100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1284 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar SS100's 314 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special commands a significant premium over the 1936 Jaguar SS100 3.5 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.