Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

vs

Porsche 911 GT1

Germany vs Germany — 2004 vs 1998

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2004)
Porsche 911 GT1 (1998)
Specifications
SLR McLaren 722 Edition911 GT1 Strassenversion
Horsepower650 hp544 hp
Torque605 lb-ft443 lb-ft
Engine Size5,439 cc3,164 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec3.6 sec
Top Speed209 mph193 mph
¼ Mile11.5 sec11.4 sec
Weight2,535 lbs
Wheelbase2,700 mm2,700 mm
Length4,656 mm4,890 mm
Units Produced15025
Original MSRP$911,000
Value (Excellent)$900,000$15,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion counters with quicker acceleration, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition and 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion stand as two of the most notable Supercar cars from Modern classic. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 650 hp compared to 544 hp, a 106-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren uses a V8 SOHC 24V Supercharged displacing 5,439 cc, while the Porsche 911 GT1 relies on a Flat-6 DOHC Twin-Turbocharged 24V with 3,164 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion edges ahead at 3.6 seconds versus 3.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 25 units built, the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren's 150 examples. On the collector market, the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion commands a significant premium over the 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.