Germany vs Germany — 1955 vs 1990
| 190 SL | S-Class S 600 (W140) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 394 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 420 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 5,987 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.3 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 3,040 mm |
| Length | 4,290 mm | 5,213 mm |
| Units Produced | 25,881 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 4/10 |
Numbers favor the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL with the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 394 hp compared to 105 hp, a 289-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 Mercedes-Benz S-Class relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 5,987 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140) edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 13.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL commands a significant premium over the 1990 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 600 (W140), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.