Germany vs Italy — 1948 vs 1947
| 356 Speedster | 202 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | 57 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,089 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 99 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 1,609 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,350 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 3,960 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 170 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1947 Cisitalia 202 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Germany engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster and 1947 Cisitalia 202 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster producing 70 hp and the 1947 Cisitalia 202 delivering 55 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 OHV air-cooled displacing 1,582 cc, while the Cisitalia 202 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 1,089 cc. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster claims a higher top speed at 100 mph compared to 99 mph. The Cisitalia 202 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 243 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 170 units built, the 1947 Cisitalia 202 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356's 4,145 examples.