Germany vs West Germany — 1957 vs 1956
| 356A Speedster | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 60 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 81 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.5 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,171 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster 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.
When Germany engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster and 1956 BMW 507 Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 60 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356A uses a Flat-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,582 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. The Porsche 356A carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1080 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356A's 1,171 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.