UK vs UK — 1959 vs 1957
| SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 140 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,548 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.9 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 123 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,248 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,654 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $3,700 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 offers 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 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8 versus the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 140 hp, a 110-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Daimler SP250 Dart uses a V8 OHV displacing 2,548 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 8.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is considerably scarcer than the Daimler SP250 Dart's 2,654 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production commands a significant premium over the 1959 Daimler SP250 Dart 2.5 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.