Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster 3 Liter Inline 6-Cylinder 1957

Allgemeine Beschreibung : 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster
s/n 198.042.7500532, engine no. 198.980-7500431
Silver with Red Leather

The Mercedes-Benz 300SL remains one of the most important and iconic vehicles ever constructed. A car that redefined motorsports performance when new, the 300SL in both gullwing and roadster configuration continues to inspire enthusiasts all over the world today. Released in 1954 with production concluding in 1957, the gullwing arrived first as a triumph of engineering and design. Delivered with production fuel-injection (first of its kind), and achieving the world's fastest top speed, the 300 SL (S-Sport, L-Light) confirmed Max Hoffman’s challenge to Mercedes-Benz engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut – to build a Gran-Prix car, tailored for road use.

Demand for the gullwing was surprisingly strong considering the price, but the growing US market, in particular the west coast, was seeking cars of unique distinction and open configuration, Hoffman insisted that a roadster version also be developed. Far more than a topless 300SL, the roadster was significantly re-engineered to address some of the shortcomings of the earlier 300SL platform. To begin with, the roadster was fortified with additional structural frame members and the side structure improved for traditionally hinged doors with larger openings. Further structural improvements resulted in greater torsional rigidity and better handling via single-pivot swing-axle rear suspension which vastly improved bump oversteer experienced in the gullwing. Other improvements such as roll up side glass, increased horsepower, and softer coil springs made for a much more enjoyable ride without compromising the sporting nature of the race-bred original. A total of 1,858 roadsters were built from 1957-1963 with just 554 constructed in its inaugural year.

This particular example has recently emerged from the estate of a long term California collection where it remained for twenty years under thoughtful ownership. The former owner enjoyed several outings with the car including participation in the Grand Prix Monaco Formula One event in 2011, 2012, and 2013 confirmed by the windshield decals still in place today. A copy of the original Mercedes-Benz build sheet indicates the car still retains the original matching numbers engine exactly as it was assembled on December 17, 1957. The build sheet further indicates the car was ordered for delivery to the US with sealed beam headlights, Becker radio, column mounted turn signal indicator, reverse lights (integrated into the main taillight lenses), and fitted luggage. Originally painted bright red, the car was fitted with cream leather interior and beige convertible top. Delivery was consigned from Meyer Sohn, Bremen, Germany through Studebaker/Packard (then the authorized US importer for Mercedes-Benz) with a final destination of New Orleans.

With 77,947 miles showing on the odometer, this 300SL has had a recent service by 300SL experts Burlingame Motors. After a careful mechanical overview, new sway bar bushings and new motor mounts were installed and the brakes were serviced, cleaned and adjusted. During the brake inspection, it was noted that there were no leaks and correct materials were used during restoration. Today this rare and beautiful matching numbers 300SL roadster presents as a very handsome glossy restoration with delightful cosmetics and excellent mechanical continuity. The silver paint was mixed with the correct metallic flake and was uniformly applied. The finish remains glossy and smooth with attractive presentation, representing enjoyable use in some areas but overall well maintained and properly detailed. The doors, hood and trunk gaps are tidy and even throughout with mild evidence of use visible in a few closure surfaces. The hood and trunk open and shut smoothly and the doors have properly finished jambs, opening and shutting tightly with distinctive German precision. The exterior emblems and lenses are all in very good to excellent condition, while the chrome shows only minor areas of light surface hazing. The wheels and wheel covers are beautifully finished with matching silver painted rims and chrome plated wheel trim and hubcaps. The low fender line, sculpted hood bulges, and racecar inspired side vents all accent the perfect stance of this SL.

The interior of the car has a very fresh look and feel. The recently finished leather surfaces have been properly stitched and applied. The workmanship throughout the interior is of high quality with excellent feel to the seating surfaces and a beautifully fitted leather topped dash. The red color is consistent throughout the majority of leather surfaces with just a hint of vermillion that brightens the hue in more direct sunlight. The red canvas top smoothly disappears into the hinged rear deck and latches into the windshield header with tight closure including a clear, taut rear window. The dashboard is beautiful, with vivid instruments, all functioning as expected. The various detailed interior switches, levers, and knobs are all beautifully finished including the wood rimmed Nardi steering wheel. Inside the trunk, a set of finely crafted red leather covered luggage has been trimmed with grey leather edging and grab handles, accented by chrome hardware. The overall visual impact of the interior is quite nice, exhibiting uniform finishes and minimal use since being restored.

Under the hood, the matching numbers fuel-injected 300SL engine is a stunning combination of sculptural artistry and mechanical refinement. Proper fittings and attention to detail are evident throughout the engine compartment. The correct air cleaner housing and fittings are also in place. Although the finishes are showing some evidence of use since the restoration was completed, the overall cohesive presentation is very satisfying. The engine compartment is clean and well presented down to the correct engine number stamping and ID plate, correct serial number plate, and correct body code plate. While not restored with only concours show judging in mind, the engine compartment is properly prepared, ready for enjoyment.

As one might expect from a car that has been sorted and well-maintained, mechanical performance and driving manners are consistent with the cosmetic condition. The car starts easily and settles into a smooth idle when warm, while the cold idle is typical for these injected engines and easily managed with the driver-operated fuel enrichening mechanism. The engine is well tuned with no fuel-injection issues, with fuss-free and linear operation throughout the rev range. The gearbox engages easily and shifting is smooth with good synchromesh and a pleasing, high-quality mechanical feel to the action. Suspension is very nice on the highway with easy handling and surprisingly light steering even at slower speeds. Braking is effective and symmetrical with good bite. The chassis and underside components are in very good condition overall with no significant issues and no visible signs of structural compromise. The integrity of the restoration on all upper surfaces is reflected diligently in the underside, though not to top tier concours level.

This matching numbers 300SL Roadster comes with fitted luggage, spare tire, and a copy of the original build sheet verifying the matching numbers engine and supporting the original equipment as delivered.

One of the most exotic cars available when new, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster was brimming with innovative features, many of them hallmarks of superlative automotive engineering. Today these fast, beautiful, and exclusive cars continue to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts in part due to their inherent beauty but also for their exceptional build quality and ease of use. This matching numbers example is ready for enjoyable driving, events, or fun excursions, just as originally intended when delivered new.

https://fantasyjunction.com/inventory/1957-mercedes-benz-300-sl-roadster/overview

1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster 3 Liter Inline 6-Cylinder is listed verkauft on ClassicDigest in Emeryville by Fantasy Junction for $995000.

Fakten der Auto

Karosserietyp : Auto Marke : Mercedes-Benz Modell : 300SL Roadster Ausführung : 3 Liter Inline 6-Cylinder Hubraum : 0.0 Modelljahr : 1957 Lage : Emeryville Fahrzeug Anmeldung : Normal

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über Mercedes-Benz

In den Annalen der Automobilgeschichte entfaltet sich die Reise von Mercedes-Benz wie eine Erzählung voller Ingeniosität seiner Gründer. Im Jahr 1886 schuf Karl Benz den Benz Patent Motorwagen, eine Kreation, die als das weltweit erste Automobil in die Geschichte eingehen sollte. Unwissentlich markierte dieser Moment den Ursprung dessen, was sich zu einem weltweit renommierten Premium-Autohersteller entwickeln würde. Die finanzielle Basis dieses bahnbrechenden Unternehmens wurde interessanterweise von Karls Ehefrau, Bertha Benz, bereitgestellt, was eine bemerkenswerte Partnerschaft demonstrierte, die den Ton für das Erbe von Mercedes-Benz setzen sollte.

Nicht weit entfernt entstand eine parallele Erzählung, als die Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft, gegründet von Gottlieb Daimler und Wilhelm Maybach, die Bühne betrat. Im Jahr 1901 enthüllten sie ihr Auto unter dem mittlerweile berühmten Namen "Mercedes", was auf Spanisch "Geschenk Gottes" bedeutet. Dieser Name wurde auf das Auto auf Wunsch von Emil Jellineks Tochter verliehen, dem Vertriebspartner der Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft. Die Räder der Innovation wurden in Bewegung gesetzt.

Springen wir vorwärts ins Jahr 1926, ein entscheidendes Jahr, das die Fusion von Daimler mit Benz & Cie. sah, was zur Geburt von Daimler-Benz führte. Die Fusion führte zur Übernahme von "Mercedes-Benz" als das renommierte Markenzeichen für ihre Automobile und verschmolz die Legenden zweier visionärer Unternehmen zu einer.

Entgegen konservativen Wahrnehmungen entfaltet sich die Geschichte von Daimler-Benz als Chronik von Branchenneuheiten. Von der Einführung des Wabenkühlers über den Schwimmervergaser bis zur bahnbrechenden Einführung von Vierradbremsen im Jahr 1924 trieb Daimler-Benz kontinuierlich die Grenzen der automobilen Innovation voran. Der Dieselantrieb des Mercedes-Benz 260 D im Jahr 1936 markierte den Beginn von Dieselmotoren in Personenkraftwagen. Der ikonische Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing schrieb Geschichte als das erste Auto mit direkter Kraftstoffeinspritzung, wenn auch der winzige 2-Takt-Motor des Gutbrod Vorrang beanspruchen kann.

Sicherheitsinnovationen wurden zum Markenzeichen, mit Béla Barényis patentiertem Sicherheitszellen-Design in den "Ponton"-Modellen im Jahr 1951, das Front- und Heck-Knautschzonen umfasste. Der W116 450SEL 6.9 führte die Einführung des Antiblockiersystems (ABS) ein, eine weitere wegweisende Sicherheitsfunktion. Vom ersten serienmäßigen Airbag bis hin zu vielen weiteren Innovationen wurde das Erbe der "Ersten" weiter in das Gewebe von Daimler-Benz eingeschrieben.

Auf seiner über hundertjährigen Reise hat Mercedes-Benz nicht nur Autos produziert, sondern automobile Ikonen geschaffen. Der SSKL, 710 SSK Trossi Roadster, 770K Grosser, 540K Spezial Roadster, 300SL Gullwing, W100 600 Pullman, W111 280SE 3.5 Flachkühler, W113 230SL Pagode, W109 300 SEL 6.3 und W201 2.3-16 Cosworth sind Zeugnisse des Engagements der Marke für Ingenieurkunst.

Die donnernden Silberpfeile, oder "Silberpfeile", darunter der W 25, W 125, W154, W165 und W196, schufen ein Erbe der Dominanz auf der Rennstrecke. Diese Maschinen waren nicht nur Autos; sie waren Ausdruck von Präzision, Geschwindigkeit und einem unbezwingbaren Geist, der die Konkurrenz im Staub zurückließ.

Während Mercedes-Benz in die Zukunft schreitet, tut es dies nicht nur als Automobilhersteller, sondern als Hüter eines Erbes, als Fackelträger der Innovation und als Leuchtturm automobiler Exzellenz. Der Weg in die Zukunft wird zweifellos die Fortsetzung der Verschmelzung von modernster Technologie, zeitlosem Design und dem unerschütterlichen Engagement für die Festlegung neuer Standards in der Welt der Automobile erleben.