USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1957
| Starliner Commander V8 | 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,244 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,131 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 5,029 mm | 4,570 mm |
| Units Produced | 13,058 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $2,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 counters with 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 USA engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 and 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 215 hp compared to 185 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Starliner uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,244 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 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,858 units built, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Starliner's 13,058 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8, 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.