UK vs Germany — 1958 vs 1955
| Grantura Mk III | 300 SL Gullwing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 110 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,798 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.8 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 1,625 lbs | 2,855 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,159 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,810 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 300 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | $3,500 | $6,820 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1958 TVR Grantura Mk III offers lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing counters with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1958 TVR Grantura Mk III and 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 95 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the TVR Grantura uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,798 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 10.8 seconds. The TVR Grantura carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1230 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1958 TVR Grantura Mk III is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL's 1,400 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 1958 TVR Grantura Mk III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.