UK vs Germany — 1959 vs 1955
| Alpine Series V | 300 SL Gullwing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 92 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,725 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.6 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 2,101 lbs | 2,855 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,184 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,988 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 69,251 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | $2,650 | $6,820 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V against the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 92 hp, a 123-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Sunbeam Alpine uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,725 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 13.6 seconds. The Sunbeam Alpine carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 754 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,400 units built, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is considerably scarcer than the Sunbeam Alpine's 69,251 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 1959 Sunbeam Alpine Series V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.