In 1954, Mercedes-Benz introduced a two-seat sports car, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. It was first produced as a Coupe, and in 1957 it was replaced by the Roadster version of this model. One of the Coupe examples, the 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is up for auction.
When it hit the market with a list price of $11,000, it was very popular among celebrities, racing drivers and other successful individuals. This example is part of the Dare to Dream Collection and in 2013 it underwent a complete restoration by renowned marque specialist Rudi Koniczek. It is one of only 101 Roadsters from the entire production finished in extraordinary Light Blue, and one of only 211 examples produced by Mercedes-Benz during their 1959 model year.
During the restoration, the car was stripped completely while steel and aluminum panels were added into the car’s original body where required. It is equipped with Dunlop disc brakes, 3.64 ratio rear axle, color-matched wheels, a Becker Mexico radio, Talbot mirror, and Baisch-style seat belts, while its sumptuous, ergonomic interior was masterfully retrimmed in pristine red leather (1079) beneath a Dark Blue fabric Roadster top.
The car is powered by an original 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that provides outstanding performance. It is reliable enough to be a favorite of enthusiasts for vintage rallies, long-distance touring, but also for everyday driving.
This collectible Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is offered without reserve and has an estimated value of $1,500,000 – $1,800,000 USD.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
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