Japan vs West Germany — 1968 vs 1971
| 117 Coupe XE | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,817 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,425 lbs | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,500 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 86,400 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1968 Isuzu 117 Coupe XE brings lighter weight, greater rarity to the table, and the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Isuzu 117 Coupe XE versus 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 130 hp, a 95-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Isuzu 117 Coupe uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,817 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 4,520 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Isuzu 117 Coupe carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1080 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.