UK vs Germany — 1957 vs 1955
| TR3A | 550 Spyder | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 122 lb-ft | 90 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.8 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.7 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,100 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 58,236 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | $2,625 | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1957 Triumph TR3A offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1957 Triumph TR3A versus 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder 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 Triumph TR3A producing 100 hp and the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR3A uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,991 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 10.8 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 800 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR3A's 58,236 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder commands a significant premium over the 1957 Triumph TR3A, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.