Germany vs Germany — 1928 vs 1983
| SSK | 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 185 hp |
| Torque | — | 162 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,065 cc | 2,299 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,748 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,950 mm | 2,665 mm |
| Length | 4,250 mm | 4,420 mm |
| Units Produced | 33 | 20,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $32,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK brings more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth answers with higher top speed, lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK with the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 185 hp, a 115-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SSK uses a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged displacing 7,065 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 2,299 cc. The 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth claims a higher top speed at 143 mph compared to 120 mph. The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 970 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16's 20,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK commands a significant premium over the 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 Cosworth, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.