Italy vs West Germany — 1972 vs 1960
| X1/9 1500 | 356B Super 90 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 85 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 87 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.0 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 17.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,000 lbs | 2,061 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,202 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,830 mm | 4,010 mm |
| Units Produced | 160,000 | 30,963 |
| Original MSRP | $5,600 | $3,825 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1972 Fiat X1/9 1500 excels in quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe stands out for higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1972 Fiat X1/9 1500 against the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Italy versus West Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1972 Fiat X1/9 1500 producing 85 hp and the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe delivering 90 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat X1/9 uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 1,498 cc, while the Porsche 356B relies on a Flat-4 OHV with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Fiat X1/9 1500 edges ahead at 11.0 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 30,963 units built, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Fiat X1/9's 160,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1972 Fiat X1/9 1500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.