UK vs UK — 1959 vs 1957
| Alpine Series V | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 92 hp | 250 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 | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,101 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,184 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 3,988 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 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V 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 Sunbeam Alpine Series V 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 92 hp, a 158-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 with 3,442 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production 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 Production is considerably scarcer than the Sunbeam Alpine's 69,251 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production 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 Production rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.