Germany vs West Germany — 1955 vs 1956
| 356 Speedster 1600 Super | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | — | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | — | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super against the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus West Germany. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 75 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 displacing 1,582 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356's 4,145 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.