Germany vs Germany — 1970 vs 1972
| 280 SL Pagoda | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,778 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,175 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 23,885 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $10,200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda versus the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 180 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,778 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1025 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL's 23,885 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.