UK vs West Germany — 1957 vs 1956
| TR3A | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 122 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.8 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.7 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,100 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 58,236 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $2,625 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1957 Triumph TR3A 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.
Putting the 1957 Triumph TR3A against the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus West Germany. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 100 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR3A uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,991 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 10.8 seconds. The Triumph TR3A carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 832 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR3A's 58,236 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1957 Triumph TR3A, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.