Italy vs West Germany — 1970 vs 1971
| Montreal 2.6 V8 | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | — | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,593 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,220 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,925 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $130,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 3/10 |
The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, stronger collectibility, better value. The 1970 Alfa Romeo Montreal 2.6 V8 counters with greater rarity, 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 Italy engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1970 Alfa Romeo Montreal 2.6 V8 and 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 200 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo Montreal uses a V8 displacing 2,593 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL relies on a V8 SOHC with 4,520 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,925 units built, the 1970 Alfa Romeo Montreal 2.6 V8 is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Alfa Romeo Montreal 2.6 V8 commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.