Germany vs Germany — 1957 vs 1928
| 300 SL Roadster | SSK Sport Kurz | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 7,069 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 119 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 3,748 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,950 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,250 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,858 | 33 |
| Original MSRP | $11,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $30,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster excels in higher top speed, lighter weight, better value, while the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Kurz stands out for more power, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster and 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Kurz share a manufacturer in Mercedes-Benz, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Kurz holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 215 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SSK relies on a Inline-6 OHC Supercharged with 7,069 cc. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 119 mph. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 617 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Kurz is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster's 1,858 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK Sport Kurz commands a significant premium over the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.