Italy vs West Germany — 1963 vs 1971
| Mistral 4.0 Spider | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 245 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 246 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,694 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,756 lbs | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 948 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | $12,500 | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 3/10 |
On balance, the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider for outright capability, or the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider versus 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 225 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Maserati Mistral uses a Straight-6 DOHC displacing 3,694 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 4,520 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider edges ahead at 6.8 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. The Maserati Mistral carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 749 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 948 units built, the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spider commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.