Germany vs West Germany — 1954 vs 1949
| 300SL Gullwing | 170 S W136 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 203 lb-ft | 80 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,996 cc | 1,767 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 73 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.2 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,855 lbs | 2,646 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 4,520 mm | 4,430 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,400 | 38,262 |
| Original MSRP | $6,820 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. However, the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing for outright capability, or the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing with the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 52 hp, a 163-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 300SL uses a Inline-6 SOHC (M198) displacing 2,996 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 170 S relies on a Inline-4 SV (Side-Valve) with 1,767 cc. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing claims a higher top speed at 161 mph compared to 73 mph. The Mercedes-Benz 170 S carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 209 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,400 units built, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 170 S's 38,262 examples. On the collector market, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.