UK vs West Germany — 1970 vs 1971
| Stag V8 | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,997 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.3 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 117 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,685 lbs | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,540 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,394 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 25,939 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | $5,500 | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 3/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1970 Triumph Stag V8 offers lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL counters with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When UK engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1970 Triumph Stag V8 and 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 145 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 9.3 seconds. The Triumph Stag carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 820 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 25,939 units built, the 1970 Triumph Stag V8 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples.