1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster

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1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster
s/n 198.042. 10-002702 engine no. 198.980-10-0002761
Navy Blue with Parchment Leather Interior

The 300SL was one of the most exotic cars available when it was new. Directly descended from racing cars, and chock full of innovative features, they were fast, beautiful, and expensive. Arguably the first supercar ever (others claim that honor should be bestowed upon the Lamborghini Miura), the 300SL has been described as the McLaren F1 of its day. Surrounded by separate frame carbureted contemporaries, the SL was truly a glimpse of the future and remains today a very special car. Their appeal is timeless and consequently, they have remained blue-chip collector cars that are always in demand and perhaps even culturally embedded as one of the greatest cars of all time. The roadster version was for many years overshadowed by the stunning gullwing; however, as more savvy enthusiasts have become privy to the advantages of the roadster, their values are now catching up to those of the coupes. Indeed, the increased practicality of proper doors with wind-up windows, improved drivability from the revised rear suspension, and inimitable open air experience make the roadster a more enjoyable car to use than the gullwing.

This particular car is a matching numbers US model car that was restored in Germany some years ago and fitted with European headlamps. As a 1960 example, this car features the larger drum brakes to further improve the driving experience when compared to both gullwings and earlier roadsters. The car also has chrome wheels, fitted luggage, service manual, car cover, and its original manual pack and holder. The current owner has spent considerable time and money on getting the car just right, including the fitment of a concealed modern radio (with an antenna concealed inside of the door), paint touchup, new interior mirror, and right side Talbot mirror.

Cosmetically, the car is extremely nice, with high quality paint that is in excellent condition. There are a few light scratches but nothing to detract significantly from the strong impression that the car makes. The panels fit well and the chrome is excellent. The dark blue German canvas top is high quality and in excellent condition. The glass and lenses are excellent, with just a wiper mark on the windscreen.

The interior is very nice as well, with correctly perforated leather upholstery and correct square weave carpets. The instruments, chrome trim, and dashboard were restored and remain excellent. There are very few signs of wear at all and even the clock works.

The engine compartment and trunk were included in the restoration and both remain very nice. The original jack is still present, while the engine compartment is clean. The intake has been tastefully polished, while the correct VDO washer reservoir is present in like new condition. The underside is tidy but not detailed for show. It was obviously redone during the restoration and is solid and well-kept. The car performs superbly and has no known needs.

This is a great opportunity to acquire a capably restored and extremely attractive example of this desirable car. The high quality restoration is developing some light patina but is wearing well, making this the ideal car to use in events and enjoy without fear of spoiling it. The European headlights are much more attractive than the US ones, while the stunning color combination and various extras further differentiate this car.