Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR

vs

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Germany vs Germany — 1954 vs 1979

Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (1954)
Mercedes-Benz G-Class (1979)
Specifications
300 SLR Uhlenhaut CoupeG-Class G 500 (W463)
Horsepower310 hp296 hp
Torque232 lb-ft336 lb-ft
Engine Size2,982 cc4,966 cc
0-60 mph6.9 sec7.4 sec
Top Speed180 mph130 mph
¼ Mile14.5 sec15.5 sec
Wheelbase2,370 mm2,850 mm
Length4,340 mm4,662 mm
Units Produced2
Value (Excellent)$150,000,000$120,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/104/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe excels in quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1979 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G 500 (W463) stands out for better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe and 1979 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G 500 (W463) 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. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe producing 310 hp and the 1979 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G 500 (W463) delivering 296 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR uses a Inline-8 DOHC Desmodromic displacing 2,982 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz G-Class relies on a V8 SOHC 24V with 4,966 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe edges ahead at 6.9 seconds versus 7.4 seconds. On the collector market, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1979 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G 500 (W463), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.