To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION
- Retains its original engine as verified by its Mercedes-Benz
Classic Certificate.
- Known ownership history from new.
- One of just 1,858 roadsters produced.
- Fitted luggage and both hard and soft tops included.
The original Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was created for the 1952 season
to test the waters prior to Mercedes-Benz making a full-scale
return to racing competition. It was merely a placeholder until the
firm's 1954 Grand Prix car was completed. To deem this exercise
successful is an understatement - a second and fourth at the Mille
Miglia; first and second at LeMans and the Nurburgring; the same in
the Carrera Panamericana; and one-two-three at Bern.
Mercedes-Benz had no intentions of putting the car into production,
but U.S. importer Max Hoffman had ideas of his own. Hoffman
convinced Daimler-Benz to offer a production model by ordering
1,000 of them to-be-built and sent to the United States. Since the
competition model had been sourced from off-the-shelf parts of
Mercedes-Benz's 300-series saloon cars, it seemed relatively easy
for the manufacturer to honor his request. The resulting car
however, was exceedingly complex mechanically and not really
designed for volume production. Nonetheless, thanks to the
persistence (and clout) of Hoffman, M-B proceeded with limited
production.
The 300 SL became the first Mercedes to be introduced in the United
States before it was shown in Germany. Unveiled in New York on
February 6, 1954, it took the automotive world by storm. The SL or
"super light" moniker reflected the pioneering use of multi-tube
space frame construction. It also featured fully-independent
suspension in addition to its 240 bhp 2,996 cc straight six with
dry sump lubrication and Bosch mechanical fuel-injection (the first
production car to do so); the motor inclined to the side in order
to reduce the height of the bonnet. Power was delivered through a
four-speed manual gearbox giving the car a 150mph top speed and
0-60 mph time of just 8.8 seconds; making it the fastest production
automobile of its time. The result was a car that you could buy in
New York City in 1954 for a princely sum of $6,820.00 and cruise to
your weekend home in Connecticut at top speed, should you dare.
The spectacular Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing remained in
production for three years (through 1957), during which just 1,400
cars - not including racers and prototypes - were built largely
by-hand in Stuttgart's highest luxury car traditions. Despite the
low volume, Daimler-Benz was sufficiently convinced of the value of
an expensive sports car as part of its model lineup to develop an
improved version.
U. S. importer Max Hoffman is claimed as being largely responsible
for Mercedes' decision to build a roadster version of the gullwing
coupe. About 80 percent of production was delivered to the United
States and Hoffman was convinced his pampered customers wanted a
bit more comfort, a larger trunk, and the open-air driving
experience a convertible afforded. Whether or not Hoffman prompted
the decision, the roadster made its first appearance in the spring
of 1957 at the Geneva Motor Show. By the end of the year, the final
70 gullwing coupes and the first 618 roadsters produced came off
the assembly line. More importantly, it established a long history
of high-performance two-seat convertibles as part of the
Mercedes-Benz hierarchy. Roadster production ended on February 8,
1963 after 1,858 were produced.
This beautiful 300 SL has known history from new and its history is
highlighted in the Gullwing Group Roadster Registry. It was
delivered new to the United States on October 15, 1957, originally
in DB 050 White over DB 333 blue leather along with a folding
fabric top in 896 dark blue. As a U.S. delivery car, it retains its
proper U.S.-spec headlights with separate turn indicators, bumper
guards, and a speedometer registering in miles per hour. A correct
factory hardtop finished to match the body color and fitted luggage
as originally specified are also included; along with a service
manual, M-B Classic documentation, and all books and records. The
Becker Mexico radio originally ordered with the car, is retained,
too.
Philip C. Kennedy of Las Vegas, Nevada owned the car for many
years. Under his ownership, the 300 SL received a comprehensive
body-on restoration of the highest standards which included body,
chrome, trim, leather, upholstery, engine, and a complete
mechanical overhaul. All of this work is documented and included in
a large file to remain with the vehicle. It is available for
inspection upon request. Kennedy became ill and sold the roadster
for a then-record sum to a well-known dealer/collector during which
time a major service was completed and a new clutch installed.
During subsequent ownership, the vehicle participated in road rally
events and more recently, was serviced and attended to by David
Grant of David Grant, Ltd. in order to maintain its high standards,
both mechanically and cosmetically.
Today, finished in a stunning combination of red over black leather
along with a contrasting black convertible roof and chrome wheels,
this Mercedes-Benz continues to delight. Recently, all fluids have
been changed and the front and rear bumpers re-chromed. Both the
paint and interior are described as in excellent condition and
everything works as intended. The consigner notes that the 300 SL
starts easily and drives great and is the perfect example to drive
and enjoy as Mercedes-Benz intended. To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo20.