Germany vs West Germany — 1928 vs 1979
| SSK | S-Class W126 560 SEC | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | — | 336 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,065 cc | 5,547 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,748 lbs | 3,924 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,950 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Length | 4,250 mm | 4,935 mm |
| Units Produced | 33 | 74,060 |
| Original MSRP | — | $73,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK brings greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC answers with higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Mercedes-Benz has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK with the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK producing 300 hp and the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz SSK uses a Inline-6 SOHC Supercharged displacing 7,065 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class relies on a V8 SOHC with 5,547 cc. The 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 120 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 33 units built, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class's 74,060 examples. On the collector market, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK commands a significant premium over the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.