Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sotheby's Santa Monica event, June
24, 2017.
Estimate:
$1,100,000 - $1,300,000 US
Fully restored, matching-numbers example
Long-term history with enthusiast owners
Finished in light Green Poly (DB274) over Dark green (1073)
interior
Furnished with books, tools, and luggage
Chassis No. 198-042-10-02551
Body No. 198-042-10-0000061
Engine No. 198-980-10-002602
Looking to expand upon his success with the 300 SL coupe, American
importer Max Hoffman thought that a convertible version would also
sell quite well, and so the 300 SL Roadster was introduced in 1957.
Of course, as the 300 SL would lose its top, engineers had to
reinforce and modify the space-frame chassis to fit conventionally
hinged doors. Through lowering the height of the chassis, this
simultaneously allowed for greater ease of entry. Cosmetic changes
were minor and included a smaller grille opening and dual chrome
strips along the side sills, giving the car a more streamlined and
glamorous look. At the rear, the spare tire was repositioned below
the trunk floor, necessitating a smaller fuel tank but also
maintaining reasonable luggage space.
Looking to keep the speed and performance of the closed 300 SL for
the new roadster, Mercedes-Benz fitted the more sporting NSL engine
of the coupe to all roadsters as standard equipment. This made the
roadster capable of top speeds that ranged from 133 to 155 mph,
depending on the final drive ratio specified. However, the stunning
performance and design of the 300 SL Roadster did not come cheap,
at a list price of $11,000. Ownership of a 300 SL implied an
exquisite taste in engineering and aesthetics, and it was the
ultimate automotive statement. Naturally, many found homes in the
garages of celebrities, racing drivers, and other successful
individuals with an appreciation for the finer things.
This particular 1960 300 SL Roadster was originally delivered in
Fire Engine Red (DB534) and was changed to Light Green Poly (DB274)
during its recent restoration. In 1983, the car was purchased by
Des Crain of New Orleans; he sold the car to Milton Sheftel of
Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 2002. The car was purchased in 2005 by
Mercedes-Benz enthusiast Horst Temple. Shortly after purchasing the
car, it was decided that the 300 SL would be fully restored. The
car was completely stripped to bare metal and refinished in its
current combination. All chrome parts were completely refinished,
while the drivetrain was fully rebuilt by Marx Mercedes in Costa
Mesa, California. The interior and soft-top were refinished in dark
green, creating a very unique color scheme, and all-new rubber and
seals were fitted. The consignor notes that the car was in very
nice, driver-quality condition when the restoration began, and that
no metal work was needed. The car is accompanied by photographs and
receipts from the restoration, as well as a set of books, tools,
and fitted luggage.
Boasting wonderful performance and reliable enough to be used on a
daily basis, the 300 SL Roadster is an enthusiast favorite for
vintage rallies, long-distance tours, or even use as a regular
driver at one's summer home. A well-restored example is a requisite
in any collection, and this example certainly will not disappoint.
With the car's restoration completed earlier this year, it remains
ready for the road and concours events in every respect. Boasting a
highly compelling and unique color combination of light Green Poly
over dark green, it will garner much attention wherever it
travels.
Addendum:
Please note this vehicle is titled to its body number
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/.
