UK vs UK — 1953 vs 1957
| 100 BN2 | XKSS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 262 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,660 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.3 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,169 lbs | 2,249 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,634 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $2,985 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 counters with 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.
The 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 and 1957 Jaguar XKSS stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 262 hp compared to 110 hp, a 152-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,660 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 10.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100's 14,634 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS commands a significant premium over the 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.