Germany vs Italy — 1957 vs 1957
| 356A Speedster | Appia GTE Zagato | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 60 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 81 lb-ft | 59 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,090 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 1,720 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 3,930 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,171 | 200 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Germany and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster versus 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster producing 60 hp and the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato delivering 60 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356A uses a Flat-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,582 cc, while the Lancia Appia relies on a V4 OHV with 1,090 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster edges ahead at 14.5 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 200 units built, the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356A's 1,171 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster commands a significant premium over the 1957 Lancia Appia GTE Zagato, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.