UK vs West Germany — 1954 vs 1956
| TR2 Long Door | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.9 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.3 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,896 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,636 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $2,499 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door versus 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 90 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR2 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,991 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 11.9 seconds. The Triumph TR2 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1036 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR2's 8,636 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.