Mercedes-Benz
SLS AMG
Porsche
Carrera GT
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG vs Porsche Carrera GT: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG comes out ahead of the Porsche Carrera GT on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
SLS AMG
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment characterized by deep appreciation for its design, status as a modern icon, and its naturally aspirated V8 engine. The vehicle is consistently praised for its unique gullwing doors, which are seen as a direct homage to the 300SL, and its distinctive, muscular proportions. It is widely regarded as a special, collectible car that represents a peak era for AMG, often described as having a unique soul and character missing from later turbocharged models.
Best version to buy
GT Final Edition: This limited-run model is specifically highlighted and appreciated for its unique badging, increased power output (591 hp), and its status as the pinnacle of the SLS production run. The "Final Edition" is recognized as a particularly collectible variant.
Known issues
- ⚠Extremely high transmission repair costs: The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (referred to as a DSG) is cited as having repair or replacement costs reaching approximately $40,000 USD. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠General high maintenance costs: Acknowledged as an expensive vehicle to maintain, with complex systems like the transmission, lifters, and head bolts on the M156 engine requiring vigilant and costly care. Frequency: recurrent.
Carrera GT
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment as a legendary, highly desirable supercar. The vehicle is consistently described as an emotional, special, and awe-inspiring machine, with particular reverence for its naturally aspirated V10 engine derived from Porsche's Le Mans prototype program. Owner discussions frequently highlight its rarity, iconic design, and status as a pinnacle achievement.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No discussions differentiate between model years or specifications.
Known issues
- ⚠Reputation for being difficult/unforgiving to drive: frequently cited lack of traction control and driver aids, noted as a factor in high-profile accidents, described as requiring significant skill to handle safely.
- ⚠Low mileage/garage queen status: many examples are reported with very low mileage (e.g., ~1,200 miles), indicating predominant use as a collectible rather than a regularly driven vehicle. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Porsche Carrera GT, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Porsche Carrera GT is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG or the Porsche Carrera GT?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and the Porsche Carrera GT. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG or the Porsche Carrera GT?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is classed as a Coupe, the Porsche Carrera GT as a Cabriolet, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG or the Porsche Carrera GT?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG or the Porsche Carrera GT?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG than the Porsche Carrera GT. See the known issues comparison above.