Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR

vs

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Germany vs Germany — 1954 vs 1990

Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (1954)
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1990)
Specifications
300 SLR Uhlenhaut CoupeS-Class S 600 (W140)
Horsepower310 hp394 hp
Torque232 lb-ft420 lb-ft
Engine Size2,982 cc5,987 cc
0-60 mph6.9 sec5.9 sec
Top Speed180 mph155 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec14.2 sec
Wheelbase2,370 mm3,040 mm
Length4,340 mm5,213 mm
Units Produced2
Value (Excellent)$150,000,000$75,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/104/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe offers higher top speed, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe with the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 394 hp compared to 310 hp, a 84-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR uses a Inline-8 DOHC Desmodromic displacing 2,982 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 5,987 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.9 seconds. On the collector market, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.