Germany vs Germany — 1956 vs 1956
| 507 | 300 SL Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,168 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,480 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,380 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | $10,970 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 BMW 507 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1956 BMW 507 and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster stand as two of the most notable Grand Tourer cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 150 hp, a 65-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW 507 uses a V8 OHV displacing 3,168 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL's 1,858 examples.