Classic 300SL For Sale

Iconic Classic

If there’s ever a pantheon of automotive legends, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL certainly holds a high spot. This car is more than just a pretty face; it carries a rich history tied to racing and performance that has stood the test of time. It’s no surprise that these beauties don’t come cheap.

Rare and Remarkable

Currently, one of these rare gems is up for grabs on Bring a Trailer. This 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL, chassis 5500733, is one of just 1,400 Gullwing coupes crafted between 1954 and 1957. Originally assembled in September 1955, this car made its way to the States via the Port of New York. A long-term California owner held it from 1978 until recently, during which time it underwent a significant restoration in 2007, including a repaint and mechanical overhaul.

Its heart is the 3.0-liter M198 inline-six engine, which works with a replacement four-speed manual transmission. This 300SL’s sleek silver exterior has been returned to its authentic white (DB050) glory, and it runs like it’s on day one.

Perfect Aesthetic

Inside, the car sports a stunning mix of red leather and Ulster Tartan plaid cloth—a combination that pops beautifully against the classic white exterior. It’s a ride that demands to be noticed. The odometer reads just 39,000 miles, with only about 23 new miles since the current owner took the keys.

Driving Experience

The experience behind the wheel of a 300SL is unparalleled. With 215 horsepower ready to roar, the car feels more like a powerful athlete than a collector’s piece. It’s a thoroughbred with bodywork that whispers elegance and advanced aerodynamics, setting a high bar even by modern standards. In comparison to the competition of its time, like the Aston Martin DB4 or the Jaguar XK140, the 300SL stands out not just for its iconic gullwing doors but also for its engineering mastery.

Price Tag and Prestige

Back in the mid-50s, a 300SL would have cost around $8,000, translating today to nearly $94,000—a hefty investment during its heyday. Fast forward to now, and the current bid for this beauty has hit $1.215 million. Clearly, it takes a love for automotive history and a hefty wallet to bring this German marvel home.

For those with the means, this car offers not just ownership but a story, a legacy. Its minimal mileage and pristine condition mean it’s not just a museum piece; it’s a ride ready to make memories. In any car show, its presence is as commanding today as it was over half a century ago. If tearing down the highway in a cultural icon isn’t enough of a perk, then the historic and monetary value certainly seals this vehicle’s legendary status.