United Kingdom vs Germany — 1967 vs 1973
| Sprite MkIV Roadster | 914 2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,275 cc | 1,971 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.2 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,627 lbs | 2,138 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 3,530 mm | 3,985 mm |
| Units Produced | 22,793 | 95,000 |
| Original MSRP | $2,195 | $5,299 |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster against the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — United Kingdom versus Germany. The 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 100 hp compared to 65 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,275 cc, while the Porsche 914 relies on a Flat-4 SOHC with 1,971 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 14.2 seconds. The Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 511 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 22,793 units built, the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 914's 95,000 examples.