Japan vs Germany — 1965 vs 1973
| Sports 800 UP15 | 914 2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 42 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1,971 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 96 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.2 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,279 lbs | 2,138 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,000 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 3,580 mm | 3,985 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,131 | 95,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,299 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, 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 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 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 — Japan versus Germany. The 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 100 hp compared to 45 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Sports 800 uses a Flat-2 OHV displacing 790 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 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 859 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,131 units built, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 914's 95,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 commands a significant premium over the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.