Italy vs West Germany — 1947 vs 1953
| 125 S | 550 Spyder 1500 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 83 lb-ft | 88 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,497 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,654 lbs | 1,213 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 2 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $10,000,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1947 Ferrari 125 S brings greater rarity to the table, and the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS answers with higher top speed, lighter weight. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1947 Ferrari 125 S 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 1947 Ferrari 125 S producing 118 hp and the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 125 S uses a V12 SOHC displacing 1,497 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC with 1,498 cc. The 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS claims a higher top speed at 137 mph compared to 106 mph. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 441 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2 units built, the 1947 Ferrari 125 S is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 550 Spyder's 90 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.