Germany vs Germany — 1972 vs 1969
| 350 SL R107 | 2800 CS E9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 211 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,499 cc | 2,788 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.8 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 134 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.7 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,461 lbs | 2,976 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,460 mm | 2,626 mm |
| Length | 4,390 mm | 4,650 mm |
| Units Produced | 15,304 | 9,399 |
| Original MSRP | $12,950 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9 answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 versus the 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 170 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL uses a V8 SOHC displacing 3,499 cc, while the BMW 2800 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,788 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9 edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. The BMW 2800 CS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 485 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1969 BMW 2800 CS E9 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.