Germany vs Germany — 1958 vs 1955
| 1000 Sp Roadster | 550 Spyder | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 90 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 981 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 87 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,918 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 5,500 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Auto Union 1000 Sp Roadster counters with 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.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1958 Auto Union 1000 Sp Roadster and 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 55 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auto Union 1000 uses a Inline-3 Two-Stroke displacing 981 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC 8V with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 18.0 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 618 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is considerably scarcer than the Auto Union 1000's 5,500 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder commands a significant premium over the 1958 Auto Union 1000 Sp Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.