UK vs West Germany — 1964 vs 1971
| CV8 Mk II | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 405 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,276 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,360 lbs | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,724 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 500 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | $7,995 | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 3/10 |
On balance, the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. However, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II for outright capability, or the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II versus 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 225 hp, a 105-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jensen CV8 uses a V8 OHV (Chrysler) displacing 6,276 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 4,520 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II edges ahead at 7.2 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 500 units built, the 1964 Jensen CV8 Mk II is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples.