USA vs Germany — 1946 vs 1956
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | 507 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 170 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,301 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,769 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $4,445 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1956 BMW 507 stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged against the 1956 BMW 507 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Germany. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 289 hp compared to 150 hp, a 139-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Avanti uses a V8 Paxton Supercharged R2 displacing 4,736 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged edges ahead at 7.3 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. The BMW 507 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 369 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Avanti's 4,643 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.