Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

vs

Bentley S-Series Continental

Germany vs UK — 1957 vs 1955

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (1957)
Bentley S-Series Continental (1955)
Specifications
300 SL Roadster (W198 II)S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe
Horsepower215 hp200 hp
Torque203 lb-ft310 lb-ft
Engine Size2,996 cc6,230 cc
0-60 mph7.0 sec10.9 sec
Top Speed155 mph115 mph
¼ Mile15.2 sec17.8 sec
Weight3,131 lbs4,299 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm3,124 mm
Length4,570 mm5,385 mm
Units Produced1,858431
Original MSRP$10,950—
Value (Excellent)$2,200,000$1,200,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity8/109/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe counters with greater rarity, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) for outright capability, or the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) versus 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) producing 215 hp and the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe delivering 200 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Bentley S-Series Continental relies on a V8 OHV with 6,230 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 10.9 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1168 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 431 units built, the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL's 1,858 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) commands a significant premium over the 1955 Bentley S-Series Continental S2 Drophead Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.