United Kingdom vs UK — 1959 vs 1957
| Alpine Series II | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | — | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | — | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | — | 2,286 mm |
| Length | — | 3,988 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 16 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series II brings better value to the table, and the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production answers with more power, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between United Kingdom and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series II versus 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 80 hp, a 170-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-4 in the Sunbeam Alpine versus a Inline-6 DOHC in the Jaguar XKSS. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production commands a significant premium over the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series II, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.