Germany vs Italy — 1948 vs 1957
| 356 Speedster | Appia GTE Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | 59 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,090 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 3,930 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 200 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster against the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Italy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster producing 70 hp and the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato delivering 60 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 OHV air-cooled displacing 1,582 cc, while the Lancia Appia relies on a V4 OHV with 1,090 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster edges ahead at 13.5 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 200 units built, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356's 4,145 examples. On the collector market, the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster commands a significant premium over the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.