UK vs UK — 1948 vs 1954
| XK120 | D-Type Le Mans | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,442 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.0 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 170 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,591 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 4,420 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,055 | 71 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $25,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1948 Jaguar XK120 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Jaguar has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1948 Jaguar XK120 with the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 180 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar XK120 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 12V displacing 3,442 cc, while the Jaguar D-Type relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 10.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 71 units built, the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XK120's 12,055 examples. On the collector market, the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1948 Jaguar XK120, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1954 Jaguar D-Type Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.