UK vs West Germany — 1959 vs 1956
| Alpine Series V | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 92 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,725 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.6 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,101 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,184 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 69,251 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $2,650 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V versus 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 92 hp, a 58-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Sunbeam Alpine uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,725 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 13.6 seconds. The Sunbeam Alpine carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 831 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Sunbeam Alpine's 69,251 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.