Triumph TR3A

vs

Porsche 550 Spyder

UK vs West Germany — 1957 vs 1953

Triumph TR3A (1957)
Porsche 550 Spyder (1953)
Specifications
TR3A550 Spyder 1500 RS
Horsepower100 hp110 hp
Torque122 lb-ft88 lb-ft
Engine Size1,991 cc1,498 cc
0-60 mph10.8 sec7.0 sec
Top Speed105 mph137 mph
¼ Mile17.7 sec15.0 sec
Weight2,100 lbs1,213 lbs
Wheelbase2,235 mm2,100 mm
Length3,835 mm3,700 mm
Units Produced58,23690
Original MSRP$2,625$5,995
Value (Excellent)$65,000$7,000,000
Collectibility7/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS 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.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1957 Triumph TR3A versus 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS 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 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS 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 with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 10.8 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 887 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR3A's 58,236 examples. On the collector market, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS commands a significant premium over the 1957 Triumph TR3A, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1953 Porsche 550 Spyder 1500 RS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.