Mercedes Benz 300 SL Roadster 1957, Alemanha
Fotografia
The original Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was created for the
1952 season to test the waters prior to Mercedes-Benz making a full-scale
return to racing competition. It was merely a placeholder until the firm’s 1954
Grand Prix car was completed. To deem this exercise successful is an
understatement – a second and fourth at the Mille Miglia; first and second at
LeMans and the Nurburgring; the same in the Carrera Panamericana; and
one-two-three at Bern.
Mercedes-Benz had no intentions of putting the car into
production, but U.S. importer Max Hoffman had ideas of his own. Hoffman
convinced Daimler-Benz to offer a production model by ordering 1,000 of them
to-be-built and sent to the United States. Since the competition model had been
sourced from off-the-shelf parts of Mercedes-Benz’s 300-series saloon cars, it
seemed relatively easy for the manufacturer to honor his request. The resulting
car however, was exceedingly complex mechanically and not really designed for
volume production. Nonetheless, thanks to the persistence (and clout) of
Hoffman, M-B proceeded with limited production.
The 300 SL became the first Mercedes to be introduced in
the United States before it was shown in Germany. Unveiled in New York on
February 6, 1954, it took the automotive world by storm. The SL or “super
light” moniker reflected the pioneering use of multi-tube space frame
construction. It also featured fully-independent suspension in addition to its
240 bhp 2,996 cc straight six with dry sump lubrication and Bosch mechanical
fuel-injection (the first production car to do so); the motor inclined to the
side in order to reduce the height of the bonnet. Power was delivered through a
four-speed manual gearbox giving the car a 150mph top speed and 0-60 mph time
of just 8.8 seconds; making it the fastest production automobile of its time.
The result was a car that you could buy in New York City in 1954 for a princely
sum of $6,820.00 and cruise to your weekend home in Connecticut at top speed,
should you dare.
The spectacular Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing remained in
production for three years (through 1957), during which just 1,400 cars – not
including racers and prototypes – were built largely by-hand in Stuttgart’s
highest luxury car traditions. Despite the low volume, Daimler-Benz was
sufficiently convinced of the value of an expensive sports car as part of its
model lineup to develop an improved version.
U. S. importer Max Hoffman is claimed as being largely
responsible for Mercedes’ decision to build a roadster version of the gullwing
coupe. About 80 percent of production was delivered to the United States and
Hoffman was convinced his pampered customers wanted a bit more comfort, a
larger trunk, and the open-air driving experience a convertible afforded.
Whether or not Hoffman prompted the decision, the roadster made its first
appearance in the spring of 1957 at the Geneva Motor Show. By the end of the
year, the final 70 gullwing coupes and the first 618 roadsters produced came
off the assembly line. More importantly, it established a long history of
high-performance two-seat convertibles as part of the Mercedes-Benz hierarchy.
Roadster production ended on February 8, 1963 after 1,858 were produced.
This beautiful 300 SL has known history from new and its
history is highlighted in the Gullwing Group Roadster Registry. It was
delivered new to the United States on October 15, 1957, originally in DB 050
White over DB 333 blue leather along with a folding fabric top in 896 dark
blue. As a U.S. delivery car, it retains its proper U.S.-spec headlights with
separate turn indicators, bumper guards, and a speedometer registering in miles
per hour. A correct factory hardtop finished to match the body color and fitted
luggage as originally specified are also included; along with a service manual,
M-B Classic documentation, and all books and records. The Becker Mexico radio
originally ordered with the car, is retained, too.
Philip C. Kennedy of Las Vegas, Nevada owned the car for
many years. Under his ownership, the 300 SL received a comprehensive body-on
restoration of the highest standards which included body, chrome, trim,
leather, upholstery, engine, and a complete mechanical overhaul. All of this
work is documented and included in a large file to remain with the vehicle. It
is available for inspection upon request. Kennedy became ill and sold the
roadster for a then-record sum to a well-known dealer/collector during which
time a major service was completed and a new clutch installed. During
subsequent ownership, the vehicle participated in road rally events and more
recently, was serviced and attended to by David Grant of David Grant, Ltd. in
order to maintain its high standards, both mechanically and cosmetically.
Today, finished in a stunning combination of red over
black leather along with a contrasting black convertible roof and chrome
wheels, this Mercedes-Benz continues to delight. Recently, all fluids have been
changed and the front and rear bumpers re-chromed. Both the paint and interior
are described as in excellent condition and everything works as intended. The
consigner notes that the 300 SL starts easily and drives great and is the
perfect example to drive and enjoy as Mercedes-Benz intended.
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