UK vs UK — 1959 vs 1957
| Alpine Series V | XKSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 92 hp | 262 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,725 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.6 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,101 lbs | 2,249 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,184 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 69,251 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $2,650 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V 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 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V and 1957 Jaguar XKSS 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 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 262 hp compared to 92 hp, a 170-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Sunbeam Alpine uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,725 cc, while the Jaguar XKSS relies on a Inline-6 DOHC (XK) with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 13.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS is considerably scarcer than the Sunbeam Alpine's 69,251 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS commands a significant premium over the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.