UK vs UK — 1949 vs 1957
| TD Mk II | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 57 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 64 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,250 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 22.7 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 80 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.5 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,925 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,388 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,708 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Units Produced | 29,664 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $1,800 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 10/10 |
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1949 MG TD Mk II counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1949 MG TD Mk II and 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 57 hp, a 193-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG TD uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,250 cc, while the Jaguar XKSS relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 22.7 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is considerably scarcer than the MG TD's 29,664 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production commands a significant premium over the 1949 MG TD Mk II, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.