Collectors with a passion for automotive history will be vying for a piece of Mercedes-Benz heritage at an upcoming Las Vegas auction. The centerpiece? The final 300 SL Gullwing ever produced, a car that transcends mere transportation and embodies a bygone era of automotive design.
This meticulously maintained beauty, originally a showpiece for a trade fair in 1957, boasts a unique pedigree a special order Standwagen with ownership by just four individuals in its nearly seven decade lifespan.
The prestigious RM Sotheby’s event, hosted by car enthusiast Jay Leno and dedicated to the Stallones, promises to be a record breaker, following last year’s staggering $18.8 million sale of a Lewis Hamilton driven Formula 1 car at the same venue.
A stunningly original 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is poised to command a hefty price tag at auction. This fire engine red beauty boasts a pristine, all original condition, from its sleek chassis and powerful engine to the luxurious cream leather interior and meticulously maintained gearbox.
Debuting at the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance’s first-ever 300 SL class, the car’s impeccable pedigree is further bolstered by its third place finish. Accompanying this automotive masterpiece are the original factory data card, historical photos, a perfectly matching luggage set, and even the full set of belly pans.
With such a remarkable package, expectations are understandably high. While not anticipated to reach the record breaking figures of Lewis Hamilton’s F1 car, auction house estimates suggest a minimum of $2.5 million, with the possibility of exceeding $3 million depending on the competition. The gavel falls next month, so stay tuned for the outcome.