Austin-Healey Sprite

vs

Porsche 356A

UK vs Germany — 1958 vs 1957

Austin-Healey Sprite (1958)
Porsche 356A (1957)
Specifications
Sprite Mk I (Frogeye)356A Speedster
Horsepower43 hp60 hp
Torque50 lb-ft81 lb-ft
Engine Size948 cc1,582 cc
0-60 mph20.5 sec14.5 sec
Top Speed83 mph100 mph
¼ Mile22.5 sec19.5 sec
Weight1,444 lbs1,852 lbs
Wheelbase2,032 mm2,100 mm
Length3,480 mm3,950 mm
Units Produced48,9991,171
Original MSRP$1,795$2,995
Value (Excellent)$45,000$700,000
Collectibility8/1010/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) versus 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) producing 43 hp and the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster delivering 60 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey Sprite uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 948 cc, while the Porsche 356A relies on a Flat-4 OHV 8V with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster edges ahead at 14.5 seconds versus 20.5 seconds. The Austin-Healey Sprite carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 408 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,171 units built, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey Sprite's 48,999 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster commands a significant premium over the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.