UK vs West Germany — 1960 vs 1971
| DB4 GT Zagato | 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 314 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | — | 278 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,670 cc | 4,520 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,505 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,489 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 4,325 mm | 4,390 mm |
| Units Produced | 19 | 237,287 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,660 |
| Value (Excellent) | $16,000,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 3/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato excels in more power, greater rarity, while the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato against the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL R107 450 SL is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus West Germany. The 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato holds a clear advantage in raw power with 314 hp compared to 225 hp, a 89-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin DB4 uses a Inline-6 displacing 3,670 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 19 units built, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL / 450 SL's 237,287 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato 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.