The Mercedes-Benz 300SL came about in the wake of the company’s Le Mans and Carrera Panamericana victories in 1952. Keen to capitalise on those successes as much as possible.
Developing the car into a road-going tour de force was a masterstroke; upon its unveiling at the 1954 New York Motor Show, the 300SL ‘Gullwing’ caused a sensation.
Not only was its top speed around twice that of the typical contemporary family saloon, but it was also the world’s first production car with fuel injection. Officially known as the 300SL Coupé, the Gullwing survived until 1957, with 1400 built before the Roadster replaced it.
Often criticised for its unforgiving rear suspension, you could easily end up leaving the road backwards if you unsettled a coupé mid-bend.
That’s why the Roadster’s rear suspension was improved significantly; the swing axles remained, but with a lower pivot point, while a transverse coil spring helped when the car was being cornered hard.
Listing
1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster with Factory Rudge Wheels is on sale for $2.65 Million on Autotrader. The car is listed in New York at Gullwing Motor Cars. More about the car below:
- One of just 27 vehicles delivered new with Rudge knock-off wheels
- Retains its original DB 180 Silbergrau Metallic paint and 1079 Rot red leather interior
- Fully original, numbers-matching components, including the five original date-coded Rudge wheels
- Features include a Becker Mexico radio, sealed-beam headlights, two-piece Hepco luggage set, and 5.5×15 KPZ Rudge knock-off wheels
- Mechanically restored by HK-Engineering, including a full engine and gearbox overhaul, ensuring it’s in top condition for long-distance touring
- The car was originally delivered to North America in 1957 and has had only three private owners
- Extensive restoration work revealed its original paint, and the car retains its factory-installed soft top, original rubber floor mats, headlights, taillights, and chrome
- Comes with original documentation, including 1960s registration, factory tools, and a comprehensive history book detailing the car’s provenance and preservation work
This exceptionally rare and well-preserved 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is an incredible find for collectors and enthusiasts, offering a rare combination of originality and historical significance.