Germany vs West Germany — 1955 vs 1956
| 190 SL | 507 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 172 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.3 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 4,290 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 25,881 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | — | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL against the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus West Germany. The 1956 BMW 507 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 105 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL uses a Inline-4 SOHC 8V displacing 1,897 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 13.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL's 25,881 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.