France vs West Germany — 1955 vs 1953
| A106 Mille Miles | 550 Spyder 1500 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 43 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 41 lb-ft | 88 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 93 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,058 lbs | 1,213 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,680 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 56 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1955 Alpine A106 Mille Miles excels in lighter weight, better value, while the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS stands out for more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1955 Alpine A106 Mille Miles against the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — France versus West Germany. The 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 43 hp, a 67-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alpine A106 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 747 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC with 1,498 cc. The 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS claims a higher top speed at 137 mph compared to 93 mph. On the collector market, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS commands a significant premium over the 1955 Alpine A106 Mille Miles, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.