ASA 1000 GT

vs

TVR Vixen

Italy vs United Kingdom — 1963 vs 1968

ASA 1000 GT (1963)
TVR Vixen (1968)
Specifications
1000 GTVixen S2
Horsepower93 hp88 hp
Torque76 lb-ft99 lb-ft
Engine Size1,032 cc1,599 cc
0-60 mph10.5 sec10.5 sec
Top Speed115 mph105 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec
Weight1,653 lbs1,568 lbs
Wheelbase2,200 mm2,159 mm
Length3,900 mm3,810 mm
Units Produced120438
Value (Excellent)$350,000$50,000
Collectibility8/105/10
Rarity8/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1963 ASA 1000 GT brings higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Italy and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1963 ASA 1000 GT versus 1968 TVR Vixen S2 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 1963 ASA 1000 GT producing 93 hp and the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 delivering 88 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the ASA 1000 GT uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,032 cc, while the TVR Vixen relies on a Inline-4 OHV (Ford Kent) with 1,599 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 120 units built, the 1963 ASA 1000 GT is considerably scarcer than the TVR Vixen's 438 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 ASA 1000 GT commands a significant premium over the 1968 TVR Vixen S2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 ASA 1000 GT rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.