UK vs Germany — 1956 vs 1955
| 100/6 BN4 | 300 SL Gullwing | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 102 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 142 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,639 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.6 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.3 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | 2,398 lbs | 2,855 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,937 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,825 | 1,400 |
| Original MSRP | $3,100 | $6,820 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When UK engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 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 102 hp, a 113-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 100/6 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,639 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 11.6 seconds. The Austin-Healey 100/6 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 457 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,400 units built, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100/6's 10,825 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing commands a significant premium over the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.