Poland vs West Germany — 1951 vs 1949
| Warszawa 223 | 170 S W136 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 108 lb-ft | 80 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,120 cc | 1,767 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 32.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 75 mph | 73 mph |
| Weight | 2,976 lbs | 2,646 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 4,665 mm | 4,430 mm |
| Units Produced | 254,471 | 38,262 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1951 FSO Warszawa 223 offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Poland engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1951 FSO Warszawa 223 and 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1951 FSO Warszawa 223 producing 70 hp and the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 delivering 52 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the FSO Warszawa uses a I4 OHV displacing 2,120 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 170 S relies on a Inline-4 SV (Side-Valve) with 1,767 cc. The 1951 FSO Warszawa 223 claims a higher top speed at 75 mph compared to 73 mph. The Mercedes-Benz 170 S carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 330 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 38,262 units built, the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 is considerably scarcer than the FSO Warszawa's 254,471 examples. On the collector market, the 1949 Mercedes-Benz 170 S W136 commands a significant premium over the 1951 FSO Warszawa 223, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.