Austin-Healey Sprite

vs

Porsche 550 Spyder

UK vs Germany — 1958 vs 1955

Austin-Healey Sprite (1958)
Porsche 550 Spyder (1955)
Specifications
Sprite Mk I (Frogeye)550 Spyder
Horsepower43 hp110 hp
Torque50 lb-ft90 lb-ft
Engine Size948 cc1,498 cc
0-60 mph20.5 sec8.5 sec
Top Speed83 mph137 mph
¼ Mile22.5 sec16.0 sec
Weight1,444 lbs1,300 lbs
Wheelbase2,032 mm2,100 mm
Length3,480 mm3,700 mm
Units Produced48,99990
Original MSRP$1,795$6,500
Value (Excellent)$45,000$7,000,000
Collectibility8/1010/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) versus 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder 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 Austin-Healey Sprite uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 948 cc, while the Porsche 550 Spyder relies on a Flat-4 DOHC 8V with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 20.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey Sprite's 48,999 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder commands a significant premium over the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.