USA vs Germany — 1930 vs 1928
| Speedster 851/852 Supercharged | SSK Count Trossi Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 4,586 cc | 7,065 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,302 mm | 2,950 mm |
| Length | 4,800 mm | 4,250 mm |
| Units Produced | 500 | 33 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $30,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged versus 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 150 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auburn Speedster uses a Inline-8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,586 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged with 7,065 cc. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special claims a higher top speed at 146 mph compared to 100 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special is considerably scarcer than the Auburn Speedster's 500 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special commands a significant premium over the 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Count Trossi Special rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.