Germany vs UK — 1959 vs 1949
| 1000 SP Roadster | DB1 2-Litre Sports | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 110 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 981 cc | 1,970 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 21.0 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 93 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,808 lbs | 2,359 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,200 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 6,640 | 15 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $900,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster against the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus UK. The 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 55 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auto Union 1000 SP uses a Inline-3 2-stroke displacing 981 cc, while the Aston Martin DB1 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,970 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports edges ahead at 14.2 seconds versus 21.0 seconds. The Auto Union 1000 SP carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 551 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 15 units built, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports is considerably scarcer than the Auto Union 1000 SP's 6,640 examples. On the collector market, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports commands a significant premium over the 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.