UK vs Germany — 1957 vs 1955
| Seven Series 2 | 550 Spyder | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft | 90 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 102 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,014 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,340 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,350 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | $1,950 | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 excels in quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value, while the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder stands out for more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 against the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 producing 95 hp and the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Seven uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,498 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC 8V with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2 edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Lotus Seven carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 286 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Seven's 1,350 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder commands a significant premium over the 1957 Lotus Seven Series 2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.