Germany vs Germany — 1948 vs 1955
| 356 Speedster | 356 Speedster 1600 Super | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 3,950 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 4,145 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $700,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster brings stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Porsche 356. The 1948 and 1955 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster producing 70 hp and the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super delivering 75 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 OHV air-cooled displacing 1,582 cc, while the Porsche 356 relies on a Flat-4 with 1,582 cc. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.