Mercedes Benz 300 SL Roadster 1960, Alemanha
Exterior : Cinza Grafite (Graphite Grey)
Interior : Couro Vermelho
Fotografia
The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was a hugely
important moment for Mercedes-Benz and served to further cement the company’s
position as the market leader in race-bred, performance automobiles. Massively
ahead of its time, the 300 SL utilized an innovative space-frame chassis
coupled with a highly advanced, fuel-injected engine, the first of its kind
fitted to a production car. It was crowned the fastest performance car in the
world upon its introduction and could handedly outrun any other car on sale at
the time.
The car was conceived by
American Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman, who believed that a road-legal
version of Mercedes-Benz’s successful W194 racer would be profitable and that
the unique style and performance of such a car would resonate well with his
American clients. Mercedes-Benz took Hoffman up on his idea, and so it was only
natural that the new 300 SL would premiere at the New York Auto Show in 1954.
The 300 SL coupe quickly earned the nickname “Gullwing” for its distinctive
roof-hinged doors, and the public fell in love with the car, not only for its
breathtaking design, but also for its earth-shattering performance.
Looking to expand upon
his success with the Gullwing coupe, Hoffman thought that a convertible version
of the 300 SL would also sell quite well, and 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. These revisions to the roadster added
some 250 lbs. to the total weight of the car, mostly due to the convertible
top.
Looking to keep the speed
and performance of the closed 300 SL for the new roadster despite its gain in
weight, 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; but it was worth every penny. 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 fine automobiles.
This beautiful roadster
was originally finished in very desirable Graphite Grey over a red leather
interior, the same combination it sports today. The Gull Wing Group’s Roadster
Register notes the first owner as Donald J.G. Leek of Hammonton, North Dakota.
In 1974, the 300 SL passed to Arthur S. Kleimer of Edison, New Jersey, at which
point the roadster is noted as having been repainted blue. Kleimer retained the
roadster for over two decades before selling it to Russell Moran in Wheatridge,
Colorado, in 1998. Moran then sold the car shortly thereafter to John P.
Herrlin in Mendham. At this time the car was noted as having been refinished in
red. Herrlin maintained the 300 SL for approximately 10 years before it was
acquired by CB Restorations, of Haverhill, Massachusetts, on behalf of the
current owner. CB Restorations proceeded to completely restore the car,
including refinishing the SL in its original and arresting color combination of
Graphite Grey and red leather interior.
Since completion, the
roadster has been sparingly used though routinely and properly maintained while
stored in their private collection. The owner notes that they have driven their
roadster for approximately 1,000 miles since acquiring it in 2009. However, it
has always been maintained in a climate-controlled facility and properly
serviced and exercised as needed. Included with the car is a correct
reproduction tool set and spare wheel and tire.
The 300 SL Roadster has
become every bit as desirable as its famous “Gullwing” sibling, and similarly
to the Jaguar E-Type, no enthusiast’s stable is complete without one. This very
early example, long treasured by enthusiasts and maintained as an excellent
driver, would be an ideal acquisition for the lady or gentleman who thrills in
the sport of driving.
Fonte : https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az19/arizona/lots/r0079-1960-mercedes-benz-300-sl-roadster/730899
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