View allAll Photos Tagged SLClass
W 198
3,0 Liter
6 Cylinder
Semi-Private Entry.
In 1955, Mercedes-Benz stopped their competition program before this special 300 SL (Steel body, aluminium bonnet and doors, revised injection, lowered suspension, etc) actually raced. Stirling Moss entered it for the 1956 Tour de France with Frenchman Georges Houel as co-driver : he finished second.
Les Voitures du Tour de France Automobile (1951-1964)
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2016
W113
2.290 cc
6 in-line
150 PS @ 5.500 rpm
Vmax : 200 km/h
1.295 kg
Erwin Hymer Museum
Bad Waldsee
Germany
December 2019
Car: Mercedes-Benz 280 SL.
Year of manufacture: 1983.
Date of first registration in the UK: 20th January 1984.
Place of registration: Armagh.
Date of last MOT: 17th February 2022.
Mileage at last MOT: 163,662.
Date of last V5 issued: 16th July 2021.
Date taken: 12th June 2022.
Location: Scolton Manor, Pembrokeshire, UK.
Album: Classics @ Scolton June 2022
Pre-production Model
W198
The 300 SL was on the small Mercedes stand at the 1954 Paris Motor Show. Its very low lines, silver paint and gullwing doors grabbed the eye. The latter had been seen on the cars that won the 1952 Le Mans 24 Hours. The Gullwing, a luxury touring car, became the stuff of dreams.
3.000 cc
6 in-line
Paris Motor Show Cars at the Grand Palais, until 1961
Presented by Historic Cars
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
June 2019
W198
1954 - 1957
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 hp @ 5.800 rpm
1.310 kg
Museo Mille Miglia
Brescia
Italy - Italia
February 2019
Car: Mercedes 450 SLC (C107).
Date of registration: 16th October 1975.
Registration region: Edinburgh.
Date taken: 14th September 2014.
Location: Easter Compton, South Gloucestershire, UK.
W113
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Estimated : € 90.000 - 120.000
Sold for € 94.300
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
'For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it's alone in the field,' enthused Road & Track magazine after testing a 280 SL in 1968, while its manufacturer considered the 280 SL: 'a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense' and 'a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally).'
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967. The new 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine produced 180 bhp, 20 hp more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60 mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's. Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape, these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.
This particular 280 SL was delivered new to the USA and since its return to Europe has been converted to European specification by a Mercedes-Benz dealership. Finished in gold metallic with brown leather interior, the car has been partially restored and is described by the vendor as in generally excellent condition. Accompanying documentation consists of a Mercedes-Benz certificate and FIVA passport.
R121
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2020
Estimated : € 100.000 - 130.000
Sold for € 123.625
While little is known about the early life of this stunning Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, the Bill of Sale on file shows that in 1985 Robert Trudo acquired the car from Stanley Fitton. Trudo subsequently sold the 190 SL to Roy Fontaine of Visalia, California. Fontaine would own this car until 2013, when he sold it to Dennis B Teale, also of Visalia.
Throughout the early 1980s and into the 2010s, this 190 SL would undergo periodic maintenance, with invoices on file dating back to 1983. It wasn’t until it entered European ownership in 2013 that more care and attention would be lavished on the car, resulting in the stunning vehicle it is today. The car retains its original engine, which is currently fitted with reliable Weber carburettors. The original Solex carburettors accompany the car.
With a huge number of invoices detailing the work undertaken (at a cost in the tens of thousands of euros), it’s unsurprising that this 190 SL is immaculate and would be a perfect car in which to spend the summer months, driving with the roof down, of course.
This is a classic Mercedes SL convertible from the last year of the R107 generation, 1989, sporting a 5.6-liter V-8 engine with Bosch fuel injection producing 227 horsepower an 287 pound-feet of torque.
The R107 SL was available in hardtop as well as convertible form.
Taken with my flip phone.
Car: Mercedes-Benz 300 SL.
Years of manufacture: 1986.
Date of first registration in the UK: 9th May 1986.
Place of registration: London Central.
Date of last MOT: 21st December 2021.
Mileage at last MOT: 105,260.
Date of last V5 issued: 20th September 2021.
Date taken: 17th April 2022.
Location: Beach Lawns, Weston-Super-Mare, UK.
First prototype of 5 pre-series prototypes
Salon Retromobile 2016
Paris Expo - Porte de Versailles
Paris - France
Februari 2016
R129
Estimated : CHF 35.000 - 45.000
Sold for CHF 28.750 - € 26.105
The Bonmont Sale
Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams
Golf & Country Club de Bonmont
Chéserex
Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz
September 2019
In 1989 Mercedes-Benz retired its classic Type R107 bodyshell that had been used for a succession of beautiful sports roadsters for almost the preceding 20 years, replacing it with an equally appealing, sleek new design in the modern idiom. This new Type R129 body style was used for three different engine types: 6.0-litre V12, 5.0-litre V8, and 3.0-litre straight six. As installed in the 500SL, the fuel-injected, 32-valve V8 produced 326bhp and delivered stupendous performance, as reflected in a 0-100km/h (62mph) time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h (156mph). As one might expect, these new SL luxury sports cars were designed to be world leaders in their class and were lavishly equipped in the best Mercedes-Benz tradition.
This outstanding example of Mercedes-Benz's luxury flagship was sold new to Gunter Sachs, the famous German photographer, documentary film-maker, author, industrialist and third husband of Brigitte Bardot, who bought the car as a gift for his then wife, Swedish former model, Mirja Larsson. The Mercedes was next owned by another gentleman and then by the current vendor, who later sold the car before buying it back in 2018. Finished in the desirable colour scheme of silver with black leather interior, this immaculate car was last serviced in May 2018 and is offered with Swiss registration papers and its stamped service booklet. Top of the range, the highest-performance model in 1989 and European-delivered, this is the one to have.
The C107/R107 Series was introduced in April 1971, and designed by Joseph Gallitzendörfer and Friedrich Geiger in 1968.
R107 stands for the convertible version. It was manufactured a few years longer than the C107 coupé version.
In the back on the left my own 1987 Pigot 305 Break GR is visible.
4520 cc 8 cylinder engine.
1622 kg.
Production Mercedes C107/R107: April 1971-1989.
Production this C107 450 SLC: 1972 (in US) / March 1973 (Europe)-1980.
Original first reg. number: Sept. 19, 1975.
New Dutch reg. number: May 1983 (not valid anymore, May 2021).
Last ownership registration: unknown.
Amsterdam-Zuid, Stadionkade, Sept. 22, 2016.
© 2016 Sander Toonen, Halfweg / All Rights Reserved
W113
A unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was a phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL's essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market; many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs and only a few years ago Bonhams sold that belonging to Oscar-nominated actress Leslie Ann Warren.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2,8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180 bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60 mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape - devised by French designer and classic car enthusiast, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.
This late 280 SL (production ceased in 1971) was manufactured in November 1970 and registered new the following month in the USA. Original finished in Medium Blue with Horizon Blue convertible hood, it was supplied with tinted windows, right-side mirror, headrests, air conditioning, Becker Europa radio, and a hardtop with chromed fixings. The car is currently finished in Smoked Grey with matching hardtop, blue convertible hood, and blue interior.
Subsequently imported into Spain, this 280 SL was purchased in Germany by the current vendor in 2016. Recent maintenance works carried out (in September 2016) included replacing the cylinder head gasket and adjusting the valve clearances (invoices on file). Described by the vendor as in generally good condition, with very good engine and transmission, this best and most sought version of the Pagoda is offered with Belgian Carte Grise and Contrôle Technique.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 71.300
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
W198 II
2.996 cc
6 in-line
Class XIII : Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2022
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2022
C107
RM Sotheby's
Salles du Carrousel du Louvre
99 Rue de Rivoli
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2023
Estimated : € 800.000 - 1.100.000
Withdrawn
W113
A unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was a phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL's essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market; many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs and only a few years ago Bonhams sold that belonging to Oscar-nominated actress Leslie Ann Warren.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2,8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180 bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60 mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape - devised by French designer and classic car enthusiast, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.
This late 280 SL (production ceased in 1971) was manufactured in November 1970 and registered new the following month in the USA. Original finished in Medium Blue with Horizon Blue convertible hood, it was supplied with tinted windows, right-side mirror, headrests, air conditioning, Becker Europa radio, and a hardtop with chromed fixings. The car is currently finished in Smoked Grey with matching hardtop, blue convertible hood, and blue interior.
Subsequently imported into Spain, this 280 SL was purchased in Germany by the current vendor in 2016. Recent maintenance works carried out (in September 2016) included replacing the cylinder head gasket and adjusting the valve clearances (invoices on file). Described by the vendor as in generally good condition, with very good engine and transmission, this best and most sought version of the Pagoda is offered with Belgian Carte Grise and Contrôle Technique.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 71.300
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
W198
'When it was first announced by Mercedes-Benz, the production 300 SL Coupé was a startling car built to the German concern's customarily startling standards, but above all what left the general public most open-mouthed about the new car was its upward-opening Gullwing doors...!' - Motors, 1963.
Mercedes-Benz returned to post-war competition in 1952, fielding two of its new 300 SL (W194) sports cars in the Mille Miglia. The pair finishing a creditable 2nd and 4th overall in this most difficult of events and this promising start was followed up by a win in the challenging Carrera Panamericana. The works first raced the 300 SL (Sport Leicht) in open form, but for the Le Mans 24-Hour Race in June a trio of 'Gullwing'-doored coupés was entered. High sills were a feature of the multi-tubular spaceframe chassis, and while access was not a problem of the open car, the coupé bodywork required innovative thinking - hence the Gullwing doors. Karl Kling and Hans Klenk duly brought their 'Silver Arrow' home in first place and the 300 SL was on its way to becoming part of motor sporting legend.
Launched in August 1954, the production 300 SL retained the spaceframe chassis and lightweight aluminium-alloy bodywork of the W194 racer while its mechanical underpinnings, like the latter's, owed much to the contemporary Mercedes-Benz 300 luxury saloon. A 2.996 cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215 bhp (DIN) at 5.800 rpm using Bosch mechanical fuel injection. A four-speed, all-synchromesh manual gearbox transmitted power to the hypoid bevel rear axle. Suspension was independent all round: by wishbones and coil springs at the front, with swing axles and coil springs at the rear.
A production 300 SL (W198) was tested by Road & Track magazine in 1955, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 7,4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph. Half expecting the long-awaited 300 SL to provide an anti-climax, R&T were delighted to find the new car, 'far beyond our wildest expectations. In fact, we can state unequivocally that in our opinion the 300SL coupé is the ultimate in an all-round sportscar. It combines more desirable features in one streamlined package than we ever imagined or hoped would be possible. Performance? It accelerates from a dead start to 100mph in just over 17 seconds. Dual purpose? A production model 300 SL can make a very acceptable showing in any type of sportscar competition. Yet the car is extremely tractable and easy to drive in traffic. Comfort? The fully enclosed 300 SL is the most comfortable (and safe) high-speed 'cross-country' car built today.'
A 300 SL roadster featuring conventional doors was first exhibited at the Geneva Salon in May 1957 and, although built in greater numbers, has never matched the immortal Gullwing for desirability. Its racing parentage notwithstanding, the 300 SL remains a thoroughly practical car, as civilised in city traffic as it is exhilarating on the autostrada. By the time 300 SL Coupé production ceased in 1957, some 1.400 examples had found customers. Today the model is both rare and most sought after by connoisseurs of fine automobiles.
One of 867 'Gullwing' coupés built in 1955, this example was delivered new to Mercedes-Benz Distributors Inc of New York, USA in November of that year. According to the 300 SL Registry (copy record on file), chassis number '823' was originally finished in light green metallic with red leather interior, a rare combination. The Register extract confirms matching chassis/engine numbers and states that this car was built with a 3,25:1 ratio rear axle - rare for a US-delivered Gullwing - which reduces engine revs and makes the car more comfortable to drive at high speeds. It is believed that this axle is the 'Special Order' referred to in the Register records. In order, the owners listed are Lawrence T Lee of Stafford Springs, Connecticut; Stephen R Narans of Denver, Colorado; and Eric Eichler of Malvern, Pennsylvania. The car spent its life with these three owners for its first 45 years.
The immediately preceding owner, Mrs Suzanna Navarro, bought the Gullwing in 2000 and brought it to Naples (Florida) for a full restoration. The rebuild took four years to complete, and in 2004 the finished car was sold to the current Dutch owner, who brought it to Holland in 2005. At that time (2005) the odometer reading was 2.800 miles (post-restoration). In the current owner's possession for 11 years, the Gullwing has covered only some 3.500 miles in that time, making the total since restoration circa 6.300 miles. In 2015, the engine was totally overhauled at a cost of €13,342 (see notes and photographs on file). While in the current owner's possession, the Gullwing won its class at the 2011 Schloss Dyck Concours d'Élégance.
This car has been inspected by Mr Benny Valkenburg, the leading 300 SL authority in Western Europe, who has confirmed its originality with respect to the chassis, body and engine (report on file). It is worthwhile noting that this Gullwing still has the standard gear lever, and not the lower, remote-linkage shifter fitted to many examples. The car comes with an instruction manual; the purchase invoice and some photographs dating from 2004; sundry invoices for minor works; German TüV paperwork; and a copy of the old US title in the name of Mercedes-Benz, Naples.
One of the Bonhams Motoring Department specialists has had the pleasure of driving this beautiful Gullwing, and is happy to confirm that it performed excellently with no faults noted; it responded eagerly to the throttle while the clutch, gearbox, and brakes all worked well – a truly memorable experience.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 1.016.666
Estimated : € 1.100.000 - 1.300.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
R129
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 60.000 - 80.000
Sold for € 44.850
Built to replace the long-running and outdated R107, the Mercedes-Benz R129 models were announced in 1989. Produced as a two-door, two-seat roadster with an automated soft top and a colour-matched aluminium detachable hard top, the R129 was offered in several models, including the 500 SL. As in the past, AMG offered a variety of engine performance packages for those clients who wanted extra power; however, beginning in 1990, AMG and Mercedes-Benz had signed a co-operation agreement allowing AMG options to be offered in Mercedes- Benz showrooms. Thus, the R129 is the first Mercedes-Benz to be offered with official AMG versions.
Offered here is one of those early AMGs, built during the co-operation years before the official merger. At its heart is a bored and stroked version of the standard Mercedes-Benz M119 5-litre V-8 engine. Increased to 6.0 litres, the engine develops 380 bhp, up from 322 from standard. Additions such as the colour-matched monoblock wheels, a lip spoiler, glossy wood trim interior and colour-shifting blue-black paint all signal that this is not your standard R129.
Some sources state that just 50 pre-merger 6.0s were made, and it is much more common to find an AMG-tuned R129 after the 1993 facelift. Incredibly rare, very driveable – this is a car for any discerning collector.
Car: Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (R107).
Date of registration: 1st January 1989.
Registration region: Dudley.
Latest recorded mileage: 124,123 (MOT 30th May 2018).
Date taken: 24th August 2014.
Location: Pembrey, UK.
Album: Welsh Vintage Show 2014
R129
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 60.000 - 80.000
Sold for € 44.850
Built to replace the long-running and outdated R107, the Mercedes-Benz R129 models were announced in 1989. Produced as a two-door, two-seat roadster with an automated soft top and a colour-matched aluminium detachable hard top, the R129 was offered in several models, including the 500 SL. As in the past, AMG offered a variety of engine performance packages for those clients who wanted extra power; however, beginning in 1990, AMG and Mercedes-Benz had signed a co-operation agreement allowing AMG options to be offered in Mercedes- Benz showrooms. Thus, the R129 is the first Mercedes-Benz to be offered with official AMG versions.
Offered here is one of those early AMGs, built during the co-operation years before the official merger. At its heart is a bored and stroked version of the standard Mercedes-Benz M119 5-litre V-8 engine. Increased to 6.0 litres, the engine develops 380 bhp, up from 322 from standard. Additions such as the colour-matched monoblock wheels, a lip spoiler, glossy wood trim interior and colour-shifting blue-black paint all signal that this is not your standard R129.
Some sources state that just 50 pre-merger 6.0s were made, and it is much more common to find an AMG-tuned R129 after the 1993 facelift. Incredibly rare, very driveable – this is a car for any discerning collector.
W198-II
2.996 cc
6 In-line
215 pk
Van Mossel Museum
Jan Vestersstraat 1
Waalwijk
Nederland - Netherlands
May 2024
W198
'When it was first announced by Mercedes-Benz, the production 300 SL Coupé was a startling car built to the German concern's customarily startling standards, but above all what left the general public most open-mouthed about the new car was its upward-opening Gullwing doors...!' - Motors, 1963.
Mercedes-Benz returned to post-war competition in 1952, fielding two of its new 300 SL (W194) sports cars in the Mille Miglia. The pair finishing a creditable 2nd and 4th overall in this most difficult of events and this promising start was followed up by a win in the challenging Carrera Panamericana. The works first raced the 300 SL (Sport Leicht) in open form, but for the Le Mans 24-Hour Race in June a trio of 'Gullwing'-doored coupés was entered. High sills were a feature of the multi-tubular spaceframe chassis, and while access was not a problem of the open car, the coupé bodywork required innovative thinking - hence the Gullwing doors. Karl Kling and Hans Klenk duly brought their 'Silver Arrow' home in first place and the 300 SL was on its way to becoming part of motor sporting legend.
Launched in August 1954, the production 300 SL retained the spaceframe chassis and lightweight aluminium-alloy bodywork of the W194 racer while its mechanical underpinnings, like the latter's, owed much to the contemporary Mercedes-Benz 300 luxury saloon. A 2.996 cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215 bhp (DIN) at 5.800 rpm using Bosch mechanical fuel injection. A four-speed, all-synchromesh manual gearbox transmitted power to the hypoid bevel rear axle. Suspension was independent all round: by wishbones and coil springs at the front, with swing axles and coil springs at the rear.
A production 300 SL (W198) was tested by Road & Track magazine in 1955, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 7,4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph. Half expecting the long-awaited 300 SL to provide an anti-climax, R&T were delighted to find the new car, 'far beyond our wildest expectations. In fact, we can state unequivocally that in our opinion the 300SL coupé is the ultimate in an all-round sportscar. It combines more desirable features in one streamlined package than we ever imagined or hoped would be possible. Performance? It accelerates from a dead start to 100mph in just over 17 seconds. Dual purpose? A production model 300 SL can make a very acceptable showing in any type of sportscar competition. Yet the car is extremely tractable and easy to drive in traffic. Comfort? The fully enclosed 300 SL is the most comfortable (and safe) high-speed 'cross-country' car built today.'
A 300 SL roadster featuring conventional doors was first exhibited at the Geneva Salon in May 1957 and, although built in greater numbers, has never matched the immortal Gullwing for desirability. Its racing parentage notwithstanding, the 300 SL remains a thoroughly practical car, as civilised in city traffic as it is exhilarating on the autostrada. By the time 300 SL Coupé production ceased in 1957, some 1.400 examples had found customers. Today the model is both rare and most sought after by connoisseurs of fine automobiles.
One of 867 'Gullwing' coupés built in 1955, this example was delivered new to Mercedes-Benz Distributors Inc of New York, USA in November of that year. According to the 300 SL Registry (copy record on file), chassis number '823' was originally finished in light green metallic with red leather interior, a rare combination. The Register extract confirms matching chassis/engine numbers and states that this car was built with a 3,25:1 ratio rear axle - rare for a US-delivered Gullwing - which reduces engine revs and makes the car more comfortable to drive at high speeds. It is believed that this axle is the 'Special Order' referred to in the Register records. In order, the owners listed are Lawrence T Lee of Stafford Springs, Connecticut; Stephen R Narans of Denver, Colorado; and Eric Eichler of Malvern, Pennsylvania. The car spent its life with these three owners for its first 45 years.
The immediately preceding owner, Mrs Suzanna Navarro, bought the Gullwing in 2000 and brought it to Naples (Florida) for a full restoration. The rebuild took four years to complete, and in 2004 the finished car was sold to the current Dutch owner, who brought it to Holland in 2005. At that time (2005) the odometer reading was 2.800 miles (post-restoration). In the current owner's possession for 11 years, the Gullwing has covered only some 3.500 miles in that time, making the total since restoration circa 6.300 miles. In 2015, the engine was totally overhauled at a cost of €13,342 (see notes and photographs on file). While in the current owner's possession, the Gullwing won its class at the 2011 Schloss Dyck Concours d'Élégance.
This car has been inspected by Mr Benny Valkenburg, the leading 300 SL authority in Western Europe, who has confirmed its originality with respect to the chassis, body and engine (report on file). It is worthwhile noting that this Gullwing still has the standard gear lever, and not the lower, remote-linkage shifter fitted to many examples. The car comes with an instruction manual; the purchase invoice and some photographs dating from 2004; sundry invoices for minor works; German TüV paperwork; and a copy of the old US title in the name of Mercedes-Benz, Naples.
One of the Bonhams Motoring Department specialists has had the pleasure of driving this beautiful Gullwing, and is happy to confirm that it performed excellently with no faults noted; it responded eagerly to the throttle while the clutch, gearbox, and brakes all worked well – a truly memorable experience.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 1.016.666
Estimated : € 1.100.000 - 1.300.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
W198 II
It was based upon Mercedes' Gullwing, the first production car with fuel injection and for many the first true supercar. In the period 1958-1963, 1.400 Roadsters were built.
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 hp
275 Nm
Expo : Supercars 2 - Road vs Race Edition
09/12/2022 - 29/01/2023
Autoworld
Brussels - Belgium
December 2022
W198
'When it was first announced by Mercedes-Benz, the production 300 SL Coupé was a startling car built to the German concern's customarily startling standards, but above all what left the general public most open-mouthed about the new car was its upward-opening Gullwing doors...!' - Motors, 1963.
Mercedes-Benz returned to post-war competition in 1952, fielding two of its new 300 SL (W194) sports cars in the Mille Miglia. The pair finishing a creditable 2nd and 4th overall in this most difficult of events and this promising start was followed up by a win in the challenging Carrera Panamericana. The works first raced the 300 SL (Sport Leicht) in open form, but for the Le Mans 24-Hour Race in June a trio of 'Gullwing'-doored coupés was entered. High sills were a feature of the multi-tubular spaceframe chassis, and while access was not a problem of the open car, the coupé bodywork required innovative thinking - hence the Gullwing doors. Karl Kling and Hans Klenk duly brought their 'Silver Arrow' home in first place and the 300 SL was on its way to becoming part of motor sporting legend.
Launched in August 1954, the production 300 SL retained the spaceframe chassis and lightweight aluminium-alloy bodywork of the W194 racer while its mechanical underpinnings, like the latter's, owed much to the contemporary Mercedes-Benz 300 luxury saloon. A 2.996 cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215 bhp (DIN) at 5.800 rpm using Bosch mechanical fuel injection. A four-speed, all-synchromesh manual gearbox transmitted power to the hypoid bevel rear axle. Suspension was independent all round: by wishbones and coil springs at the front, with swing axles and coil springs at the rear.
A production 300 SL (W198) was tested by Road & Track magazine in 1955, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 7,4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph. Half expecting the long-awaited 300 SL to provide an anti-climax, R&T were delighted to find the new car, 'far beyond our wildest expectations. In fact, we can state unequivocally that in our opinion the 300SL coupé is the ultimate in an all-round sportscar. It combines more desirable features in one streamlined package than we ever imagined or hoped would be possible. Performance? It accelerates from a dead start to 100mph in just over 17 seconds. Dual purpose? A production model 300 SL can make a very acceptable showing in any type of sportscar competition. Yet the car is extremely tractable and easy to drive in traffic. Comfort? The fully enclosed 300 SL is the most comfortable (and safe) high-speed 'cross-country' car built today.'
A 300 SL roadster featuring conventional doors was first exhibited at the Geneva Salon in May 1957 and, although built in greater numbers, has never matched the immortal Gullwing for desirability. Its racing parentage notwithstanding, the 300 SL remains a thoroughly practical car, as civilised in city traffic as it is exhilarating on the autostrada. By the time 300 SL Coupé production ceased in 1957, some 1.400 examples had found customers. Today the model is both rare and most sought after by connoisseurs of fine automobiles.
One of 867 'Gullwing' coupés built in 1955, this example was delivered new to Mercedes-Benz Distributors Inc of New York, USA in November of that year. According to the 300 SL Registry (copy record on file), chassis number '823' was originally finished in light green metallic with red leather interior, a rare combination. The Register extract confirms matching chassis/engine numbers and states that this car was built with a 3,25:1 ratio rear axle - rare for a US-delivered Gullwing - which reduces engine revs and makes the car more comfortable to drive at high speeds. It is believed that this axle is the 'Special Order' referred to in the Register records. In order, the owners listed are Lawrence T Lee of Stafford Springs, Connecticut; Stephen R Narans of Denver, Colorado; and Eric Eichler of Malvern, Pennsylvania. The car spent its life with these three owners for its first 45 years.
The immediately preceding owner, Mrs Suzanna Navarro, bought the Gullwing in 2000 and brought it to Naples (Florida) for a full restoration. The rebuild took four years to complete, and in 2004 the finished car was sold to the current Dutch owner, who brought it to Holland in 2005. At that time (2005) the odometer reading was 2.800 miles (post-restoration). In the current owner's possession for 11 years, the Gullwing has covered only some 3.500 miles in that time, making the total since restoration circa 6.300 miles. In 2015, the engine was totally overhauled at a cost of €13,342 (see notes and photographs on file). While in the current owner's possession, the Gullwing won its class at the 2011 Schloss Dyck Concours d'Élégance.
This car has been inspected by Mr Benny Valkenburg, the leading 300 SL authority in Western Europe, who has confirmed its originality with respect to the chassis, body and engine (report on file). It is worthwhile noting that this Gullwing still has the standard gear lever, and not the lower, remote-linkage shifter fitted to many examples. The car comes with an instruction manual; the purchase invoice and some photographs dating from 2004; sundry invoices for minor works; German TüV paperwork; and a copy of the old US title in the name of Mercedes-Benz, Naples.
One of the Bonhams Motoring Department specialists has had the pleasure of driving this beautiful Gullwing, and is happy to confirm that it performed excellently with no faults noted; it responded eagerly to the throttle while the clutch, gearbox, and brakes all worked well – a truly memorable experience.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 1.016.666
Estimated : € 1.100.000 - 1.300.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
R129
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2020
Estimated : € 150.000 - 200.000
Sold after auction (Highest bid : € 130.000)
This R129 SL began life as an elegantly understated 1998 SL 600 that was breathed upon by AMG Japan to become a supercar-rivalling brute that is offered for sale today. Under the bonnet the wonderful M120 V-12 engine was tuned and enlarged to 7.0 litres to produce a staggering 500 bhp, whilst the cabin was festooned with bespoke AMG carbon-fibre trim, an AMG instrument binnacle, and steering wheel. The exhaust system was also upgraded, whilst the hydraulic suspension was fettled to cope with the extra power.
Painted in the iconic Mercedes colour of Brilliant Silver, with extended grey nappa leather, this SL is offered in absolutely fantastic condition throughout, belying its age and mileage. Its Japanese service book is also comprehensively stamped and demonstrates a lifetime of pampering and care with metronomic annual servicing. The car has been regularly serviced in Switzerland, as well. The Bruno Sacco–designed R129 model is finally getting the recognition it deserves, and this is being reflected in appreciating values. This extremely rare example is quite simply one of the ultimate incarnations of the model and would make a fine addition to any collection.
R107
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2016
W198
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 PS @ 5.800 rpm
Vmax : 240 km/h
1.400 ex. (Coupé)
Techno Classica 2019
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
April 2019
W198-II
Estimated : CHF 770.000 - 1.100.000
Sold for CHF 776.250 - € 705.810
The Bonmont Sale
Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams
Golf & Country Club de Bonmont
Chéserex
Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz
September 2019
Created to spearhead Mercedes-Benz's return to competition in the post-war era, the 300 SL debuted in the 1952 Mille Miglia, finishing 2nd and 4th overall. Wins in the Carrera Pan-Americana and at Le Mans followed, and the 300 SL was on its way to becoming part of motor sporting legend. Max Hoffman, the Mercedes-Benz importer for North America, believed there would be a market for a road-going version and managed to convince the factory that such a car would be a success.
The first racers were open-topped but before the '52 season's end the distinctive 'Gullwing' doored Coupé had appeared. Unusually high sills were a feature of the multi-tubular spaceframe chassis, and while access was not a problem of the open car, the adoption of coupé bodywork required innovative thinking - hence the Gullwing doors.
Launched in 1954, the production 300 SL retained the spaceframe chassis of the racer and was powered by a 2,996cc, overhead-camshaft, inline six canted at 45 degrees to achieve a lower, more aerodynamic bonnet line. Using innovative direct fuel injection, this state-of-the-art power unit produced 215bhp at 5,800rpm. A four-speed gearbox transmitted power to the hypoid bevel rear axle. Suspension was independent all round by wishbones and coil springs at the front, with swing axles and coil springs at the rear.
Tested by the highly respected American magazine Road & Track in 1955, the 300 SL accelerated from 0-60mph in 7.4 seconds, going on to achieve a top speed of 140mph: outstanding figures for its day. It was, arguably, the world's first supercar. Half expecting the long-awaited 300 SL to provide an anti-climax, R&T were delighted to find the new car, "far beyond our wildest expectations. In fact, we can state unequivocally that in our opinion the 300 SL coupé is the ultimate in an all-round sportscar. It combines more desirable features in one streamlined package than we ever imagined or hoped would be possible. Performance? It accelerates from a dead start to 100mph in just over 17 seconds. Dual purpose? A production model 300 SL can make a very acceptable showing in any type of sportscar competition. Yet the car is extremely tractable and easy to drive in traffic. Comfort? The fully enclosed 300 SL is the most comfortable (and safe) high-speed 'cross-country' car built today." Its racing parentage notwithstanding, the 300 SL was and remains a thoroughly practical automobile, as civilised in city driving as it is exhilarating on the highway.
Clearly the 300 SL Coupé would be a hard act to follow yet the Roadster version, introduced just three years later, succeeded in bettering its closed cousin's already exemplary road manners. Built with conventional doors, the 300 SL Roadster was first exhibited at the Geneva Salon in May 1957 and was an immediate hit with the 1950s 'Jet Set' of royalty, actors, and socialites. The production of an open 300 SL involved altering the cockpit area, where the spaceframe was redesigned to permit lower sills for improved access. At the same time the rear suspension was changed to incorporate low-pivot swing axles. Disc brakes were standardised from March 1961, while towards the end of production a small batch of Roadsters was completed with an aluminium cylinder block.
The Roadster's neutral steering characteristics received fulsome praise from Road & Track in its 1958 road test. "With the low-pivot rear suspension and more adhesive tyres, the car handles beautifully under all conditions. This is a tremendous improvement over the hardtop models, which had a tendency to oversteer rather violently if pressed too hard." A 0-60mph time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 130mph were recorded, making the 300 SL Roadster one of the fastest convertibles of its time. R&T concluded: "There is no doubt that the 300 SL roadster is a truly great dual-purpose sports car, equally at home in traffic and the open road, or on the track", words that remain equally true today.
The 300 SL Roadster sold well for a car that cost more than a Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder and would out-live the 300 SL Coupé, which ceased production in 1957, by several years. Roadster production ceased in 1963 after 1,858 cars had been built, and today the model is both rare and highly sought after.
The current vendor purchased this 300 SL Roadster in 1988 at the Classic Mobil Fair, held at the Olympiahalle, Munich. Since then the car has required no work other than the removal of a dent in the right front wing. Its engine running smoothly, this example has a delightful overall patina of age and, unusually, still retains its original paintwork. Finished in beige with red leather interior, the car is offered with German Fahrzeugbrief and a copy of its factory data card.
A beautiful example of the iconic 300 SL in Roadster form, this is a highly desirable motor car that would make an exhilarating yet extremely practical touring companion. Indeed, there cannot be many better ways of travelling to a classic event, taking part and driving home.
W198II
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 800.000 - 1.000.000
Sold for € 902.188
Following the incredible success of the 300 SL Gullwing, Mercedes-Benz was eager to add a convertible version to its line-up. A prototype of this new model was spotted in the summer of 1956, whilst the production model would debut at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show. By the end of that year, the final 70 of the 1,400 coupés and the first 618 of the 300 SL Roadsters were assembled.
Along with a convertible top, the 300 SL brought a host of advancements to its predecessor. The central section of the Gullwing’s space-frame chassis was lowered, the sills were smaller, and the doors were enlarged to allow improved entrance and egress. Strength was maintained, with the addition of diagonal struts, which braced the lowered side sections to the rear tubular members. Revised suspension allowed for a more comfortable ride and improved handling. At the rear, the spare tyre was repositioned below the boot floor, necessitating a smaller fuel tank but also maintaining reasonable luggage space. Whilst these revisions added some 113 kg, with the majority of the weight being associated with the convertible top and its mechanisms, the car remained an excellent performer, with a claimed 137-mph top speed.
Just like the coupé, the Roadster proved to be the vehicle of choice for those with exceptional taste. Many featured in the garages of celebrities, racing drivers and other successful individuals. With a list price of $11,000, ownership of a 300 SL Roadster was a dream to most, but to those with the funds to spare, the car was worth every penny. For those looking to make a statement with the purchase of a new car, there was no better option available in 1957.
This magnificent 300 SL Roadster was delivered to its first owner in the U.S. during 1957 with a range of options, including the fire engine red exterior (534), light grey interior (955), drivers’ side mirror, fog lights, safety belts on both seats and a Becker Mexico radio. The first owner would retain the car until 1960. While the first few years of this car’s life are not well known, it is understood that the car resided in Hollywood and had covered just a few thousand kilometres by 1960, when it was acquired from a dealer by its second owner. Between 1960 and 1974, this second owner was unafraid to use his 300 SL as intended, adding around 100,000 km before it was consigned to a warm and dry garage – a place it would remain for the next 30 years.
In 2004, this 300 SL Roadster was acquired by the consignor (just its third owner) and was immediately serviced, with brakes, tyres and other consumables replaced as necessary, prior to its importation to Finland. The consignor exercised his 300 SL Roadster prior to its transportation to Germany, where it would be fully restored, retaining and repairing original components where possible and replacing where necessary. In total, around 3,800 hours of work was undertaken, over a period of one and a half years. The restoration included the addition of European-specification headlights. During November 2017, this 300 SL Roadster was sent for a full evaluation by Classic Data, with a detailed report on file, highlighting its exceptional condition and the originality of many of the components. In addition to this report, original service books and instruction manuals accompany the vehicle.
When it comes to 300 SL Roadsters, there are beautifully restored examples, and there are cars that are well sorted for fast driving. Offered here is the best of both worlds.
W194
The 300 SL was the first newly constructed Mercedes racing car of the post-war era. The hallmark gulwing doors were a side-effect of the car's innovative new space frame. In November 1952 Karl Kling and Hans Klenk drove the 300 SL on display here to their most spectacular victory of all in the Carrera Pan-American in Mexico.
2.996 cc
6 in-line
170 PS @ 5.200 rpm
Vmax : 230 km/h
Mercedes-Benz Museum
Mercedesstraße 100
Stuttgart
Deutschland - Germany
December 2013 / July 2014
R129
The Belgian Royal family always had a keen eye for fine motor cars. King Albert 1 was known as a vivid driver. King Leopold III owned various Bugatti's and Ferrari's. King Baudoin liked to drive his Aston martin DB2 and enjoyed his Volkswagen Golf 1 GTI very much. King Albert II picked up his fiancée Princess Paola at the Brussels airport in his BMW 507. This bespoke Mercedes 500 SL was owned by Princess Lea, born Léa Wolman, wife of Prince Alexander, son of King Leopold III and his second wife Princess Liliane de Réthy.
Class XII : Cars of the Belgian Royal Family
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2019
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2019