Triumph TR4

vs

Porsche 911

UK vs Germany — 1961 vs 1972

Triumph TR4 (1961)
Porsche 911 (1972)
Specifications
TR4 IRS911 Carrera RS 2.7
Horsepower104 hp210 hp
Torque128 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size2,138 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed109 mph152 mph
¼ Mile17.9 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,249 lbs2,150 lbs
Wheelbase2,235 mm2,271 mm
Length3,962 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced28,4651,580
Original MSRP$2,800—
Value (Excellent)$50,000$1,500,000
Collectibility6/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS 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

When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS and 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 104 hp, a 106-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR4 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,138 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 10.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR4's 28,465 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.