Germany vs UK — 1996 vs 2011
| SL 73 AMG R129 | XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 525 hp | 542 hp |
| Torque | 553 lb-ft | 502 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,291 cc | 5,000 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 186 mph | 186 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | 12.4 sec |
| Weight | 4,387 lbs | 3,865 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,515 mm | 2,752 mm |
| Length | 4,500 mm | 4,794 mm |
| Units Produced | 85 | 560 |
| Original MSRP | — | $132,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $650,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 offers greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 2011 Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged counters with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value. 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 Germany engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 and 2011 Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 producing 525 hp and the 2011 Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged delivering 542 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG uses a V12 SOHC 24V displacing 7,291 cc, while the Jaguar XKR-S relies on a V8 DOHC Supercharged with 5,000 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2011 Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 4.4 seconds. The Jaguar XKR-S carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 522 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 85 units built, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XKR-S's 560 examples. On the collector market, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 commands a significant premium over the 2011 Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.