Japan vs Germany — 1967 vs 1972
| Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) | 350 SL R107 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 96 lb-ft | 211 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 982 cc | 3,499 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.2 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 134 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,072 lbs | 3,461 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,200 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,140 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,519 | 15,304 |
| Original MSRP | — | $12,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 4/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1967 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) offers lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 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 Japan engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1967 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) and 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 110 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda Cosmo Sport uses a Twin-Rotor Wankel 10A displacing 982 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 3,499 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 10.2 seconds. The Mazda Cosmo Sport carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1389 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,519 units built, the 1967 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL's 15,304 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) commands a significant premium over the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1967 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S (L10A) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.