USA vs Germany — 1946 vs 1957
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 170 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,301 lbs | 3,131 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,769 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,570 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | $4,445 | $10,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $2,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged excels in more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) stands out for quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged against the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Germany. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 289 hp compared to 215 hp, a 74-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Avanti uses a V8 Paxton Supercharged R2 displacing 4,736 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 7.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.