Japan vs Germany — 1990 vs 1996
| Eunos Cosmo 20B Type S | SL 73 AMG R129 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 525 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,962 cc | 7,291 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 4.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 158 mph | 186 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,616 lbs | 4,387 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 mm | 2,515 mm |
| Length | 4,815 mm | 4,500 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,875 | 85 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $650,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Mazda Eunos Cosmo 20B Type S counters with lighter weight, better value, 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.
When Japan engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1990 Mazda Eunos Cosmo 20B Type S and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 525 hp compared to 300 hp, a 225-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda Eunos Cosmo uses a Triple-Rotor Wankel (20B-REW) displacing 1,962 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 7,291 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 edges ahead at 4.4 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. The Mazda Eunos Cosmo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 771 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 85 units built, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda Eunos Cosmo's 8,875 examples. On the collector market, the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG R129 commands a significant premium over the 1990 Mazda Eunos Cosmo 20B Type S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.