Germany vs Germany — 1959 vs 1955
| 1000 SP Roadster | 300 SL Gullwing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 981 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 21.0 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.5 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 1,808 lbs | 2,855 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,200 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,200 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 6,640 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,820 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 9/10 |
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster counters with lighter weight, 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.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster and 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 55 hp, a 160-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auto Union 1000 SP uses a Inline-3 2-stroke displacing 981 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 21.0 seconds. The Auto Union 1000 SP carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1047 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,400 units built, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is considerably scarcer than the Auto Union 1000 SP's 6,640 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 1959 Auto Union 1000 SP Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.