Sunbeam Alpine

vs

Porsche 550 Spyder

UK vs West Germany — 1959 vs 1953

Sunbeam Alpine (1959)
Porsche 550 Spyder (1953)
Specifications
Alpine Series V550 Spyder 1500 RS
Horsepower92 hp110 hp
Torque105 lb-ft88 lb-ft
Engine Size1,725 cc1,498 cc
0-60 mph13.6 sec7.0 sec
Top Speed103 mph137 mph
¼ Mile19.0 sec15.0 sec
Weight2,101 lbs1,213 lbs
Wheelbase2,184 mm2,100 mm
Length3,988 mm3,700 mm
Units Produced69,25190
Original MSRP$2,650$5,995
Value (Excellent)$45,000$7,000,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS 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.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V versus 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V producing 92 hp and the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Sunbeam Alpine uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,725 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 13.6 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 888 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS is considerably scarcer than the Sunbeam Alpine's 69,251 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS commands a significant premium over the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.