Triumph TR4

vs

Porsche 911

UK vs Germany — 1961 vs 1973

Triumph TR4 (1961)
Porsche 911 (1973)
Specifications
TR4 Standard911 2.7 RS Carrera
Horsepower100 hp210 hp
Torque125 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size2,138 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed109 mph152 mph
¼ Mile17.6 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,121 lbs1,984 lbs
Wheelbase2,235 mm2,271 mm
Length3,962 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced40,2531,580
Original MSRP$2,849$11,000
Value (Excellent)$60,000$1,200,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Triumph TR4 Standard counters with 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.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1961 Triumph TR4 Standard and 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 100 hp, a 110-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR4 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,138 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 10.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR4's 40,253 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera commands a significant premium over the 1961 Triumph TR4 Standard, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.