Germany vs Germany — 1955 vs 1978
| 550 Spyder | 935 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 750 hp |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft | 590 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 3,211 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 221 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 10.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,300 lbs | 2,260 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 3,700 mm | 4,625 mm |
| Units Produced | 90 | 13 |
| Original MSRP | $6,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $7,000,000 | $6,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder counters with lighter weight, 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.
The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder and 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo share a manufacturer in Porsche, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Porsche brand. The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 750 hp compared to 110 hp, a 640-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 550 Spyder uses a Flat-4 DOHC 8V displacing 1,498 cc, while the Porsche 935 relies on a Flat-6 Turbocharged with 3,211 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 960 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 550 Spyder's 90 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.