Germany vs West Germany — 1957 vs 1979
| 300 SL Roadster | S-Class W126 560 SEC | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 336 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 5,547 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,131 lbs | 3,924 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,935 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,858 | 74,060 |
| Original MSRP | $11,000 | $73,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster and 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC share a manufacturer in Mercedes-Benz, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 215 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class relies on a V8 SOHC with 5,547 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 793 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,858 units built, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class's 74,060 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.