Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

vs

Porsche 959

Germany vs Germany — 2010 vs 1986

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2010)
Porsche 959 (1986)
Specifications
SLS AMG959 Standard
Horsepower563 hp450 hp
Torque479 lb-ft369 lb-ft
Engine Size6,208 cc2,849 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec3.6 sec
Top Speed197 mph197 mph
¼ Mile11.6 sec11.8 sec
Weight3,197 lbs
Wheelbase2,680 mm2,272 mm
Length4,638 mm4,260 mm
Units Produced12,000337
Original MSRP$225,000
Value (Excellent)$350,000$2,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG brings more power, better value to the table, and the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard answers with quicker acceleration, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

In the world of Supercar cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG versus the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard. Both hail from Modern classic and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG holds a clear advantage in raw power with 563 hp compared to 450 hp, a 113-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG uses a V8 DOHC 32V displacing 6,208 cc, while the Porsche 959 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,849 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard edges ahead at 3.6 seconds versus 3.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 337 units built, the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG's 12,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard commands a significant premium over the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1986 Porsche 959 Standard rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.