UK vs Germany — 1958 vs 1957
| DB5 Vantage | 507 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 325 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,995 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 sec | 11.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 145 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.1 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,312 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 4,572 mm | 4,385 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,023 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | $12,950 | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1957 BMW 507 brings lighter weight, greater rarity and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value BMW heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage and 1957 BMW 507 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 150 hp, a 175-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC (Tadek Marek) displacing 3,995 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage edges ahead at 7.1 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. The BMW 507 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 380 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1957 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin DB5's 1,023 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1958 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.