Germany vs Germany — 1973 vs 1972
| CD 5.4 V8 | 350 SL R107 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 211 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,354 cc | 3,499 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 134 mph | 134 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 16.7 sec |
| Weight | 3,373 lbs | 3,461 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,668 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,740 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 395 | 15,304 |
| Original MSRP | $42,000 | $12,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 4/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1973 Bitter CD 5.4 V8 excels in more power, greater rarity, while the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 stands out for quicker acceleration, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Grand Tourer enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1973 Bitter CD 5.4 V8 and 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107 is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1973 Bitter CD 5.4 V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 230 hp compared to 200 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bitter CD uses a V8 OHV displacing 5,354 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 9.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 395 units built, the 1973 Bitter CD 5.4 V8 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL's 15,304 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Bitter CD 5.4 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL R107, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.