SOLD at Mecum Auctions Kissimmee 2022 - $1,375,000
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster’s long-awaited introduction at the 1957 Geneva Salon proved that the company was committed to maintaining the world-class performance of its predecessor, the famed 300SL Gullwing coupe, while simultaneously refining the SL formula to create the ultimate open grand-touring machine. Based on the same complex but
lightweight tubular spaceframe as the coupe, the SL Roadster’s roadholding capabilities were noticeably improved despite a slight reduction in torsional stiffness, the result of lowering the center side sections to accommodate conventional opening doors. Mercedes- Benz also refined the roadster’s independent rear suspension with lower swing axle pivot points, eliminating some of the high-speed unpredictability inherent in the coupe.
The overall driving experience was more civilized in keeping with the roadster’s grand- touring assignment; careful attention to detail changes resulted in a more comfortable interior fitted with plushly upholstered, molded bucket seats, full heating and ventilation, and a slightly larger trunk with plenty of space for a set of fitted luggage. Exterior styling remained virtually unchanged from the coupe, with the obvious exceptions of the convertible top and new, larger headlights with integrated turn signals. The Gullwing’s potent drivetrain also remained, headlined by the 2996cc overhead cam inline-6 employing Bosch direct fuel injection, dual ignition coils, dry-sump oiling and a higher compression ratio to deliver between 225 and 250 HP and 202 lb-ft of torque through a smooth 4-speed gearbox.
One of the last built with drum brakes, this 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster was professionally restored by marque expert Jurgen Klockemann of San Jose, California, to his renowned high standards. Originally finished with Mercedes-Benz Light Blue and a gray interior, the car was stripped to bare metal prior to being refinished in factory correct Silver Gray Metallic using two-stage base/clear coat for maximum brilliance, and the restored interior was completed in blue leather. In addition to a complete engine rebuild, the car features a new clutch and pressure plate, new fuel system, a new black soft top, Becker Mexico radio with a Hirschman antenna, and a rare original jack. With just 250 produced in 1961, this concours-quality 300SL roadster is a rare and valuable example of one of the most remarkable grand-touring automobiles of the 20th century.
Restored by marque expert Jurgen Klockeman in factory correct Silver Gray Metallic with Blue leather interior
• Body stripped to bare metal and paint applied in two stage application
• 2,996cc engine with Bosch fuel injection
• 4-speed manual gearbox
• 4-corner independent suspension
• 3.98 rear axle
• 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
• Rebuilt engine, clutch, fuel system and pressure plate
• Becker Mexico radio with Hirschman antenna
• Black soft top
• Sealed beam lighting units with separate parking lights
• Rare original jack
• Restored interior and trim
#mecum #TwoGuysandARide #MecumAuction #WhereTheCarsAre #MecumCarAuction
Comments
Post a Comment