USA vs Germany — 1955 vs 1957
| 300 Letter Series (300C) | 507 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,424 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.7 sec | 11.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 145 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 4,400 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,264 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 5,588 mm | 4,385 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,402 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $5,359 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1955 Chrysler 300 Letter Series (300C) offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1957 BMW 507 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When USA engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1955 Chrysler 300 Letter Series (300C) and 1957 BMW 507 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1955 Chrysler 300 Letter Series (300C) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 150 hp, a 240-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chrysler 300 uses a V8 OHV (Chrysler Hemi 392) displacing 6,424 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Chrysler 300 Letter Series (300C) edges ahead at 7.7 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. The BMW 507 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1468 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1957 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Chrysler 300's 2,402 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1955 Chrysler 300 Letter Series (300C), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 BMW 507 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.