Germany vs Italy — 1990 vs 2017
| SL 500SL (R129) | 812 Superfast | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 322 hp | 789 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft | 530 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,973 cc | 6,496 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 211 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,990 lbs | 3,594 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,515 mm | 2,720 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 4,657 mm |
| Units Produced | 85,000 | 4,000 |
| Original MSRP | $82,500 | $335,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
The 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 500SL (R129) counters with 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.
Putting the 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 500SL (R129) against the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Italy. The 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast holds a clear advantage in raw power with 789 hp compared to 322 hp, a 467-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SL uses a V8 DOHC 32V (M119) displacing 4,973 cc, while the Ferrari 812 Superfast relies on a V12 DOHC with 6,496 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. The Ferrari 812 Superfast carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 396 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,000 units built, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz SL's 85,000 examples. On the collector market, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast commands a significant premium over the 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 500SL (R129), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.