USA vs Germany — 1946 vs 1956
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | 300 SL Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 170 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,301 lbs | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,769 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | $4,445 | $10,970 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged against the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster 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 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged edges ahead at 7.3 seconds versus 8.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.