Germany vs Germany — 1955 vs 1955
| 190 SL | 356 Speedster 1600 Super | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.3 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 4,290 mm | 3,950 mm |
| Units Produced | 25,881 | 4,145 |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $700,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL excels in more power, better value, while the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super stands out for greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL and 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 105 hp compared to 75 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL uses a Inline-4 SOHC 8V displacing 1,897 cc, while the Porsche 356 relies on a Flat-4 with 1,582 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,145 units built, the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL's 25,881 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super commands a significant premium over the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.