UK vs Germany — 1955 vs 1955
| MGA Twin Cam | 550 Spyder | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 108 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 102 lb-ft | 90 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,588 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.8 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,129 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,388 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 3,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,111 | 90 |
| Original MSRP | $2,766 | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $100,000 | $7,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam 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.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam and 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam producing 108 hp and the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder delivering 110 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG MGA uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,588 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 9.8 seconds. The Porsche 550 Spyder carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 829 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 90 units built, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is considerably scarcer than the MG MGA's 2,111 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder commands a significant premium over the 1955 MG MGA Twin Cam, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.