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1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster

OFFERED AT: $1,285,000

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- 1 of just 30 300SL Roadsters delivered new in Strawberry Red Metallic (543)
- A matching numbers example, still with its original engine, chassis, and body
- Original delivered new to Daimler-Benz North America Inc. in Rockefeller Center, NY
- An older restoration that was performed by noted restorer Paul Russell
- Complete with two sets of keys, 300SL workshop manuals, extensive restoration records, and digital data card from Mercedes

The history.

The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing coupe debuted as an instant sensation born from the racing program’s success with the W194. All of the hype prompted Max Hoffman, the U.S importer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles at the time, to advocate for a convertible version tailored to the California market. Crafting the Roadster was no easy task. It required significant redesigns to the advanced space frame to accommodate conventional doors, rather than the roof-hinged gullwing design. The transition to a convertible required a reconfigured trunk layout to accommodate two custom fitted luggage pieces as the rear seat was lost due to the retractable top.

Mechanical improvements further amplified the Roadster's experience. An all-new rear suspension with a low pivot swing axle corrected mid-corner snap oversteer, granting the driver more stability, and thus boosting confidence in process. The introduction of softer springs appealed to drivers seeking a balance of comfort and performance.

At the heart of the Roadster's allure was its groundbreaking engine technology. It featured the world's first production car application of direct fuel injection, a milestone achieved through a collaboration with Bosch. This innovation optimized fuel delivery, ensuring peak performance across diverse driving conditions without the need for frequent engine adjustments. 1,858 units of the 300SL Roadster were produced with only 554 of those being produced in 1957. Today, the 300SL Roadster is one of the most beautiful and collectible cars of all time.

EXTERIOR PHOTOS

interior PHOTOS

THE CAR.

Chassis # 198.042.7500628

This particular 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster, Chassis # 198.042.7500628 is one of only 30 300SL Roadsters originally painted in Strawberry Red Metallic (543) over a cream interior (1060). Additionally, it was optioned with a Becker Mexico radio and came with a hardtop finished in Silver Gray Metallic (180) though the hardtop is no longer with the car. According to the car’s Mercedes issued Data Card, it was fitted with engine # 198.980.7500649; the original engine that remains in the car today. It also retains its original body # A198.042.7500553.

This first-year Roadster was originally delivered to Daimler-Benz of North America Inc. of Rockefeller Center, New York and could have been used as a showstand car for promotional purposes being that it was an early example in a very vivacious color combination. While much of its early history is lost, the ownership trail picks up in the early 1980s under the ownership of a William D. Tway of Worthington, Ohio. Under Mr. Tway's ownership, it was treated to a comprehensive restoration by noted 300SL experts, Paul Russell of Gullwing Service Company. Based on the extensive receipts, we were able to follow along with the restoration starting in 1983, as they began to prep the body for paint work, all the way to 1987 as they completed the finishing touches like chrome bumperettes and trim pieces. From our calculations the cost was roughly $110,000 dollars, which translated to 2024 money, is an eye-watering $400,000 dollars.

Service records picked up once again with Mr. Leibart, of Ohio, in 2017, where Crown Eurocars, of Dublin, Ohio began performing various servicing such as checking on tires, replacing fluids, servicing brakes, etc. From there, in 2020, Actual Automotive Services in Plain City, Ohio carried out an extensive service totalling just shy of $17,000 dollars. This included a Fuel pump and injector rebuild, shifter bushing replacement, fuel tank servicing, a new battery, servicing to the drum brakes, and fresh fluids.

Today, this 300SL Roadster wears a deep black paint with a full red interior. Though the restoration is older, it is holding up quite well. The paint is in great driver condition and the chrome bumperettes and trim are stunning with a bright shine. The interior is of a similar nature with excellent switchgear and supple red leather seats. In preparation for the sale, we commissioned the replacement of all the carpeting with correct red German Square Weave replacements to freshen its appearance. Additionally, we had a well respected European automotive service shop in Birmingham, Michigan go over the car and completed some minor spark and fuel servicing to get it running properly after its long stints sitting in collections.

Overall, this is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a matching numbers example finished in attractive colors with an older restoration done by the best in the business. Included in the sale are 300SL workshop manuals, extensive restoration photos, and digital data card from Mercedes.