Germany vs Italy — 1956 vs 1957
| 507 | 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 235 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 234 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,168 cc | 3,485 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 15.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 2,866 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,480 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,380 mm | 4,480 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 242 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | $10,800 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
The 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 BMW 507 counters with 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 1956 BMW 507 against the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Italy. The 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider holds a clear advantage in raw power with 235 hp compared to 150 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 507 uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,168 cc, while the Maserati 3500 GT Spyder relies on a Straight-6 DOHC with 3,485 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider edges ahead at 7.2 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1957 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder Vignale Spider, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.