UK vs UK — 1953 vs 1957
| Ace | XKSS Production | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 102 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 3,442 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.4 sec | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,850 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Units Produced | 723 | 16 |
| Original MSRP | $3,854 | $6,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $18,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 AC Ace 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.
The 1953 AC Ace and 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production 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 Production holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 102 hp, a 148-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AC Ace uses a Inline-6 SOHC 12V displacing 1,991 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 11.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 16 units built, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production is considerably scarcer than the AC Ace's 723 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS Production commands a significant premium over the 1953 AC Ace, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.