UK vs West Germany — 1953 vs 1956
| 100 BN2 | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,660 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.3 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,169 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,634 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $2,985 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 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 UK engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2 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 110 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,660 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 10.3 seconds. The Austin-Healey 100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 763 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100's 14,634 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1953 Austin-Healey 100 BN2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.