This amazing Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is number 27 of the 29 vehicles in existence nowadays in aluminium body. The model was first displayed at the Ellerslie Intermarque Concours d’Elegance where it won the Master Class Event for best vehicle in show.
The owner of the vehicle purchased the 300 SL Gullwing in an abandoned state, proving enough dedication and attention to detail throughout the restoration process of this extremely rare model. The original data points out that the vehicle was delivered on the 31st January, 1956 with a set destination for Mercedes-Benz London.
“The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is an iconic Mercedes-Benz model and one of brand’s finest ever production vehicles” said Ben Giffin, Mercedes-Benz Cars New Zealand General Manager.
Furthermore, the timing of this restoration coincides with the 60th anniversary of Sir Stirling Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson’s famous victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (W 196 S).
The vehicle still features the original paint and upholstery combination of Elephant Ivory, while the interior abounds in red and green, following the suggestions from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, as it is the only one of the 29 models with aluminium body with this kind of colour pattern.
The elegance is timeless and when it is combined with top engineering it results a car that becomes the “Sports Car of the Century”. In 1999, Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing was voted by an international jury the best sports car of the last century.
About 1,400 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing coupes were manufactured between 1954 and 1957 and around 80% of them were sold in the US.
The versions with steel body still used aluminum for the hood, doors and trunk lid. In addition to that, for a much higher price, Mercedes manufactured 29 units with a body completely made of aluminium which only weighed 80kg.
Is this beautiful car for sale ? I am a private retired enthusiast and would love to purchase it or one like it.