Germany vs Germany — 1957 vs 1955
| 300 SL Roadster | 300 SL Gullwing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 2,855 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,858 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | $11,000 | $6,820 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 9/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster brings quicker acceleration to the table, and the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing answers with higher top speed, lighter weight. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster. The 1957 and 1955 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster producing 215 hp and the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing delivering 215 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 276 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.