Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL

vs

Mercedes-Benz 300 Adenauer

Germany vs Germany — 1968 vs 1951

Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL (1968)
Mercedes-Benz 300 Adenauer (1951)
Specifications
300 SEL 6.3300 Adenauer
Horsepower250 hp
Engine Size6,332 cc2,996 cc
Wheelbase2,865 mm
Length5,010 mm
Units Produced6,526
Value (Excellent)$180,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 brings its unique character to the table, and the 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300 Adenauer answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Few model names carry as much weight as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL. The 1968 and 1951 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. Both cars represent compelling choices in their respective segments. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.