Summary

Matching-numbers, big-brake, two-top roadster in Fire Engine Red with a dark gray leather interior. History well known in Gull Wing Group records. Numbers verified by factory Data Card. Restored to very fine level. Lots of attention to detail.

Details

Mercedes-Benz replaced their famous 300SL 'Gullwing' in 1957 with a convertible version using a new lightweight tubular steel frame design and fuel-injected 215 hp straight 6-cylinder engine. You could order the roadster as a convertible, with soft-top only, a coupe with a hardtop only, or with both soft- and hardtops. Technologically improved, with more horsepower, a sportier camshaft, significantly better rear suspension and doors that made getting in and out a breeze. It was a huge success, outselling the Gullwing by over 25 percent. In total, 1,858 300SL roadsters were built, most of these ending up in the U.S. thanks to Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman in New York. The 300SL was the first production car to use mechanical fuel injection. Borrowing technology from Mercedes-Benz's highly successful racing team, the 300SL was lightweight, powerful and fun to drive. They are considered by many to be the most important Mercedes-Benz ever built. This 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster with both factory hardtop and black soft-top is a matching-numbers example. A desirable 'big-drum-brake' car with sporty chromed wheels, this roadster shows extremely well, having benefitted from an older restoration. Paint and chrome show very little patina. Gull Wing Group records indicate just three known owners; two in New Jersey and, the most recent, a collector in Pennsylvania. Painted the iconic Mercedes-Benz Fire Engine Red, with a dark gray interior, chassis 9500027 was originally born with a cream leather interior. The previous owner was a true car lover and collector, and this 300SL is a testament to his attention to detail and care for his cars. It is accompanied by a copy of the factory Data Card and offered with its original jack and spare wheel.