UK vs West Germany — 1962 vs 1967
| Spitfire Mk IV 1500 | 911 S 2.0 S Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 71 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 85 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,493 cc | 1,991 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.2 sec | 7.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 15.3 sec |
| Weight | 1,680 lbs | 2,271 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,108 mm | 2,268 mm |
| Length | 3,759 mm | 4,163 mm |
| Units Produced | 314,332 | 4,691 |
| Original MSRP | $2,749 | $6,990 |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1500 offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1962 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1500 versus 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 71 hp, a 89-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph Spitfire uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,493 cc, while the Porsche 911 S relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 1,991 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe edges ahead at 7.4 seconds versus 13.2 seconds. The Triumph Spitfire carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 591 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,691 units built, the 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Triumph Spitfire's 314,332 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1962 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Porsche 911 S 2.0 S Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.