Japan vs Germany — 1965 vs 1970
| Sports 800 UP15 | 280 SL Pagoda | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 42 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 2,778 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.5 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 96 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.2 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,279 lbs | 3,175 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,000 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,580 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,131 | 23,885 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 against the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus Germany. The 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 45 hp, a 135-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Sports 800 uses a Flat-2 OHV displacing 790 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,778 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1896 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,131 units built, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL's 23,885 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda commands a significant premium over the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.