United Kingdom vs Germany — 1961 vs 1972
| Midget MkI/MkII Roadster | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 56 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 64 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,098 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.3 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 87 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.2 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 1,525 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 3,404 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 63,961 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $1,895 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $28,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster counters with lighter weight, 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 United Kingdom engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster 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 56 hp, a 154-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG Midget MkI/MkII uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,098 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 18.3 seconds. The MG Midget MkI/MkII carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 625 lbs lighter. 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 MG Midget MkI/MkII's 63,961 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster, 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.