1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster (SOLD)

The 300SL Roadster offered here is documented as being only the eighth such Roadster ever built.

As such, it bore many similarities to the 300 SL Gullwing. According to research documentation provided by Mercedes-Benz Classic in Stuttgart, the car was delivered to the U.S. sales distribution agency on July 31, 1957.

At the time of delivery, it was finished in black with red leather and white piping and featured English instrumentation, sealed-beam lights with a separate parking light, as well as a two-piece trunk set. Additionally, it featured an optional rear-axle ratio of 3.891 as opposed to the standard 3.641.

A barn find of sorts, the car was found rather recently in Ohio, unrestored and unregistered for road use in over twenty years. Its current owner, only the third in the Roadsters history, acquired it in November 2003 and commenced a nearly two-year restoration, which was completed under noted expert Brian Anderson of Classic European Restorations in Escondido, California.

This frame-off restoration was finished in the summer of 2005 and no expense was
spared in reviving or replacing every element of the car when necessary. HK Engineering of Germany, a respected 300 SL supplier with over twenty years experience, supplied various pieces such as the Rudge wheels, which, it should be noted, were not originally supplied with this car.

In addition to receiving Best in Class honors in 2006 at both the Los Angeles and Palos Verdes Concours dElegance, this spectacular Mercedes was awarded Best in Show at the Gullwing National Convention in San Diego, a very praiseworthy accomplishment bestowed by peers and experts of this marque and model.

Since completion of the aforementioned restoration, the car has never seen road use and has only been driven to and from its trailer at show events. The quality and attention to detail of the workmanship is readily apparent in the cars present concours-ready condition. The metallic blue paint is spectacular and, along with the matching Rudge wheels, blue convertible top, and brightwork, appears to be free of imperfections and very well maintained. As for the interior, the Parchment leather upholstery is outstanding as well – nicely fitted and in as-new condition. The instrumentation, white steering wheel, grey carpeting, and Becker radio all have a showroom quality appearance, indicative of the cars extremely limited use.

In the trunk, a proper two-piece luggage set matches the interior. As would be expected, the engine bay and engine show no evidence of road use and have been restored to as-new factory specifications. The frame itself was powdercoated during restoration and is essentially spotless as well.

Finally, in addition to the matching trunks, an owners manual and complete set of tools will accompany the car. In the 300 SL Roadster, the enthusiast finds all the pedigree that re-established Mercedes-Benzs dominance over road racing alongside a sexy, unmistakable body. Given the high desirability of the 300 SL Roadster on todays market, an expertly restored example is all the more attractive. A 300 SL such as this is equally deserving of careful preservation as it is of attendance at the worlds finest concours events.

It is, quite simply, one of the finest 300 SL Roadsters extant.