Germany vs United Kingdom — 1969 vs 1968
| RS 1000 Sport | Vixen S2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 88 hp |
| Torque | 80 lb-ft | 99 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 1,599 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 105 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,499 lbs | 1,568 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,120 mm | 2,159 mm |
| Length | 3,660 mm | 3,810 mm |
| Units Produced | 101 | 438 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
The 1968 TVR Vixen S2 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, 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.
Putting the 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport against the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus United Kingdom. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport producing 70 hp and the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 delivering 88 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Melkus RS 1000 uses a Inline-3 2-stroke displacing 992 cc, while the TVR Vixen relies on a Inline-4 OHV (Ford Kent) with 1,599 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 TVR Vixen S2 edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 101 units built, the 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport is considerably scarcer than the TVR Vixen's 438 examples. On the collector market, the 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport commands a significant premium over the 1968 TVR Vixen S2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 Melkus RS 1000 Sport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.