USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1957
| Hawk Gran Turismo | 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,131 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 5,024 mm | 4,570 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,300 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $2,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo offers more power, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo versus 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 215 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Hawk uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 4,736 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,858 units built, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Hawk's 14,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.