Triumph TR3A

vs

Porsche 356A

UK vs West Germany — 1957 vs 1956

Triumph TR3A (1957)
Porsche 356A (1956)
Specifications
TR3A356A Carrera GT Coupe
Horsepower100 hp100 hp
Torque122 lb-ft83 lb-ft
Engine Size1,991 cc1,498 cc
0-60 mph10.8 sec10.0 sec
Top Speed105 mph124 mph
¼ Mile17.7 sec17.0 sec
Weight2,100 lbs1,940 lbs
Wheelbase2,235 mm2,100 mm
Length3,835 mm3,950 mm
Units Produced58,236700
Original MSRP$2,625$4,950
Value (Excellent)$65,000$800,000
Collectibility7/109/10
Rarity4/109/10
The Verdict

The 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1957 Triumph TR3A 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.

Overview

Putting the 1957 Triumph TR3A against the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus West Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Triumph TR3A producing 100 hp and the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe delivering 100 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR3A uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,991 cc, while the Porsche 356A relies on a Flat-4 DOHC (Type 547/1) with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe edges ahead at 10.0 seconds versus 10.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 700 units built, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR3A's 58,236 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1957 Triumph TR3A, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.