Switzerland vs West Germany — 1967 vs 1971
| 375 S High Speed | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | — | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,206 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,680 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 49 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $600,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 3/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1967 Monteverdi 375 S High Speed excels in more power, greater rarity, while the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1967 Monteverdi 375 S High Speed against the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Switzerland versus West Germany. The 1967 Monteverdi 375 S High Speed holds a clear advantage in raw power with 375 hp compared to 225 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Monteverdi 375 S uses a V8 displacing 7,206 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 4,520 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 49 units built, the 1967 Monteverdi 375 S High Speed is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Monteverdi 375 S High Speed commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.