Lancia Flaminia

vs

Mercedes-Benz 350 SL

Italy vs Germany — 1960 vs 1972

Lancia Flaminia (1960)
Mercedes-Benz 350 SL (1972)
Specifications
Flaminia GT Touring 2.5350 SL R107
Horsepower140 hp200 hp
Torque145 lb-ft211 lb-ft
Engine Size2,458 cc3,499 cc
0-60 mph11.0 sec8.8 sec
Top Speed115 mph134 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec16.7 sec
Weight3,461 lbs
Wheelbase2,750 mm2,460 mm
Length4,700 mm4,390 mm
Units Produced1,71815,304
Original MSRP$12,950
Value (Excellent)$200,000$85,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity7/104/10
The Verdict

The 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 counters with greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When Italy engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 and 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 140 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia Flaminia uses a V6 OHV displacing 2,458 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 3,499 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,718 units built, the 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL's 15,304 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Lancia Flaminia GT Touring 2.5 commands a significant premium over the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.