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W113
Mercedes-Benz SL - History and Evolution of a Legend
Presented by Anthony Pozner
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2024
Bonhams : the Zoute Sale
Estimated : € 95.000 - 145.000
Sold for € 103.500
Zoute Grand Prix 2019
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2019
A desirable manual transmission model, this outstanding Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was delivered new in Oudenaarde, Belgium by Garage NOLA. The car remained with its first owner in Oudenaarde until 2005 when it was acquired by the current (Belgian) owner, only its second in over 50 years. Finished in Papyrus White with black interior, this matching numbers car was registered when new on the short Belgian number plate, '03VJ2'. The first owner had little opportunity time to drive the Mercedes, hence its low mileage and excellent condition. It was used for the first owners' wedding and also for that of their children some 30 years later (both photographs on file).
The current owner, a car enthusiast and collector of long standing, was having difficulty finding an original Pagoda and bought this car in 2005 without a moment's hesitation. It was by far the best he had ever seen and was made all the more appealing by its lovely Flemish history and caring single-family ownership. He has since enjoyed it on several trips and international events including the Sternfahrt 2007, 18th International Rally Korsika, ... without any problems of note.
The vendor advises us that the Pagoda is in excellent mechanical condition and an absolute joy to drive, just like it would have been in 1968. Bonhams can confirm that this car is exceptionally original and honest, and in excellent overall condition; indeed, it is probably the most original and unmolested Pagoda we have ever seen. Impeccably maintained, this car is un-restored (the paintwork is largely original) and in wonderful condition with hardly any signs of age. The interior looks 'as new', with original upholstery, original carpets, and all original instruments in working condition (even the glove box light). Panel fit is excellent and the doors close as they would have done when new, which suggests they have never been removed.
The small original screws at the lower end of the door sills are a measure of this Pagoda's originality - we have seen only a couple of examples in our long history that still retain these. Spot welds in the engine compartment, the body number in the bonnet, the original firewall cover, etc are all correct and original, while original factory wax and stickers are still visible in door openings. It is believed that the soft-top is the only significant item that has been renewed.
Zoute Sale - Bonhams
Estimated : € 80.000 - 100.000
Sold for € 115.000
Zoute Grand Prix 2021
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2021
"It proved to be fast and tireless, exhilarating to drive and was probably created with long distance, comfortable travel in mind..." - Autocar on the Mercedes-Benz 190SL, 10th January 1956.
For those insufficiently wealthy to afford its hyper-expensive race-bred sports car - the 300 SL - Mercedes-Benz offered the less exotic but no less refined 190 SL. Announced in 1954 and based on the 180 saloon whose all-independently-suspended running gear it used, the 190 SL did not enter production until January 1955, the delay being caused by alterations aimed at strengthening the saloon's shortened platform to compensate for the open body's reduced stiffness. "Very few new sports cars have been so eagerly awaited or so long in coming as the moderately priced SL version of the Mercedes-Benz," observed Road & Track magazine. Mounted on a detachable sub-frame along with the four-speed manual gearbox, front suspension and steering, the power unit was a 1,897cc overhead-camshaft four - the first such engine ever to feature in a Mercedes-Benz. Breathing through twin Solex downdraft carburettors, the M121 unit produced 105bhp DIN (120bhp SAE) at 5,700rpm, an output sufficient to propel the 190 SL to 100km/h (62mph) in 14.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 171km/h (106mph). With its four-speed, all-synchromesh gearbox, servo-assisted hydraulic drum brakes and fully independent suspension, the 190 SL was both more refined and more comfortable than any contemporary British sports car. The model was a big hit in the USA where many of the slightly fewer than 26,000 produced between 1955 and 1963 found homes.
This particular 190 SL was manufactured on 1st July 1960 at Mercedes-Benz's Sindelfingen plant and has the standard four-speed manual gearbox. Unfortunately, nothing is known of its history prior to 8th October 2002 when the car was bought by Sigma System GmbH of Düsseldorf and registered as a company car. In 2005, the Mercedes was purchased one by H Werner, and a service and conversion to front disc brakes carried out.
In 2010, the 190 SL was sold by Klassik Garage Kronberg to one M Becker and serviced by them on 16th April 2013. Some five years later, in 2015, Klassik Garage Kronberg again sold the car, on this occasion to one to H Frey. On 20th May 2016 Klassik Garage Kronberg serviced the Mercedes, including a cylinder head overhaul, before buying it back again on 14th September 2017.
Known to Klassik Garage Kronberg since 2010, this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL has been maintained with considerable emphasis placed on mechanical and cosmetic perfection by the last two owners. Finished in the attractive colour combination of silver metallic with blue leather interior, the latter featuring a Becker radio, this consummate Mercedes-Benz boulevard cruiser is certain to delight the fortunate next owner.
Class XIII : Special Display Classes
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2017
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2017
W113
2.306 cc
6 In-line
150 pk
Van Mossel Museum
Jan Vestersstraat 1
Waalwijk
Nederland - Netherlands
May 2024
W198
Estimated : CHF 1.100.000 - 1.400.000
Unsold
The Bonmont Sale
Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams
Golf & Country Club de Bonmont
Chéserex
Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz
September 2019
'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 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 2,996cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215bhp (DIN) at 5,800rpm 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 0-60mph (0-97km/h) in 7.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph (225km/h). 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.
The accompanying copy of this Gullwing's factory data sheet, issued 7th June 1955, shows that it was sold new to Mr Alfred Rogers of Montreal, Canada. This document also records that the car was originally finished in black with red leather interior, the same colour scheme it has today, and that it was ordered with, among other options, special high-gloss paintwork, sealed-beam headlights, instruments in English, and special upholstery. The Mercedes stayed in Canada until at least 1989 when it was owned by Mr Fred Wegner of Woodbridge, Ontario. Previously owned by Mr Jochen Hackbarth of Hamburg, Germany, the Mercedes was purchased by the current vendor from Axel Schuette in August 1993.
Also on file is a professional condition and valuation report, compiled in December 2016 after the Gullwing had been restored, which confirms that the numbers on the chassis, body, and engine match those on the aforementioned data sheet. The odometer reading when the car was inspected was 1 kilometre, the same as it is today. This report is highly complimentary, remarking on the quality of the body, paintwork, brightwork, glass (replaced in its entirety), interior (fully re-trimmed), and chassis frame (plastic coated). It also states that the engine and differential had been overhauled, and it is worth noting that the body repairs and paintwork were entrusted to master craftsman Karl Lindermüller, one of the best specialists in the business.
Offered with German Fahrzeugbrief, this outstanding example of, arguably, the most charismatic of all post-war sports cars is presented in excellent condition and is worthy of the closest inspection.
W198-II
Mercedes SL - History and Evolution of a Legend
Presented by Thierry Halff
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2024
Mercedes SL 65 AMG
R230
5.000 km
€ 260.000
6,0 Liter
V12
753 PS
1.320 Nm
Retro Classics Cologne 2017
Koelnmesse
Köln - Cologne
Deutschland - Germany
November 2017
A Formular 1 safety car: Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
It is part of the Race Track chapter of the book "Tiny LEGO Wonders":
W198
1954 - 1957
3,0 Liter
6 in-line
215 PS
Vmax : 225 km/h
Designer : Friedrich Geiger (1907 - 1996) & Karl Wildert (1907 - 1976)
PS : Ich liebe dich
Sportwagen-Design der 1950er bis 1970er Jahre
27.09.2018 - 10.02.2019
Kunstpalast
Düsseldorf
Deutschland - Germany
January 2019
W198
1954 - 1957
3,0 Liter
6 in-line
215 PS
Vmax : 225 km/h
Designer : Friedrich Geiger (1907 - 1996) & Karl Wildert (1907 - 1976)
PS : Ich liebe dich
Sportwagen-Design der 1950er bis 1970er Jahre
27.09.2018 - 10.02.2019
Kunstpalast
Düsseldorf
Deutschland - Germany
January 2019
W196S
Daimler-Benz developed this hardtop version of the 300 SLR racing car for the 1956 season. It was never used in racing, however, because the company ceased its motorsport activities at the end of the 1955 season. Instead, the 300 SLR coupé served the head of the Test Department, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, as a company car. The nickname 'Uhlenhaut coupé' is a reminder of this.
2.982 cc
8 Cylinder
302 PS @ 7.500 rpm
Vmax : 290 km/h
2 ex.
Mercedes-Benz Museum
Mercedesstraße 100
Stuttgart
Deutschland - Germany
December 2013 / July 2014
W198
Estimated : CHF 1.100.000 - 1.400.000
Unsold
The Bonmont Sale
Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams
Golf & Country Club de Bonmont
Chéserex
Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz
September 2019
'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 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 2,996cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215bhp (DIN) at 5,800rpm 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 0-60mph (0-97km/h) in 7.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph (225km/h). 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.
The accompanying copy of this Gullwing's factory data sheet, issued 7th June 1955, shows that it was sold new to Mr Alfred Rogers of Montreal, Canada. This document also records that the car was originally finished in black with red leather interior, the same colour scheme it has today, and that it was ordered with, among other options, special high-gloss paintwork, sealed-beam headlights, instruments in English, and special upholstery. The Mercedes stayed in Canada until at least 1989 when it was owned by Mr Fred Wegner of Woodbridge, Ontario. Previously owned by Mr Jochen Hackbarth of Hamburg, Germany, the Mercedes was purchased by the current vendor from Axel Schuette in August 1993.
Also on file is a professional condition and valuation report, compiled in December 2016 after the Gullwing had been restored, which confirms that the numbers on the chassis, body, and engine match those on the aforementioned data sheet. The odometer reading when the car was inspected was 1 kilometre, the same as it is today. This report is highly complimentary, remarking on the quality of the body, paintwork, brightwork, glass (replaced in its entirety), interior (fully re-trimmed), and chassis frame (plastic coated). It also states that the engine and differential had been overhauled, and it is worth noting that the body repairs and paintwork were entrusted to master craftsman Karl Lindermüller, one of the best specialists in the business.
Offered with German Fahrzeugbrief, this outstanding example of, arguably, the most charismatic of all post-war sports cars is presented in excellent condition and is worthy of the closest inspection.
W198-II
2.996 cc
6 In-line
215 pk
Van Mossel Museum
Jan Vestersstraat 1
Waalwijk
Nederland - Netherlands
May 2024
W198II
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Estimated : € 900.000 - 1.200.000
Sold for € 632.500
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
- Star and class winner in the 1997 Carrera Panamericana
- Re-creation of Paul O'Shea's original aluminium-bodied car
- Built using factory drawings
- Completed in 1997
- Extensively campaigned in prestigious historic events
- Two comprehensive files of build details
The unique Mercedes-Benz offered here was inspired by the American driver, Paul O'Shea, who enjoyed great success in sports car racing in North America throughout the 1950s. O'Shea co-drove with some of the finest drivers of his generation including Phil Hill, Dick Thompson, Zora Arkus Duntov, Augie Pabst, and Pedro Rodriguez to name but five. He competed in a wide variety of cars but overwhelmingly favoured Mercedes-Benz.
In particular, O-Shea was a huge fan of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, arguably the finest production sports car of its day; he built two SLS models, which were based on the SL and designed specifically for motor racing. One of these two cars was given an aluminium body, which (among other measures) reduced the overall weight of the SLS by an amazing 337 kg when compared to the stock version. Thus created he created the ideal car with which to compete against the motor sporting elite.
In 1957, Paul O'Shea began racing the 300 SLS, frequently beating more powerful Ford and Chevrolet-engined American sports cars, and even European makes like Maserati, Ferrari and Aston Martin. He sat behind the wheel of his 300 SLS for 22 races and was classified as one of the top finishers in 18 of them. O-Shea's SLS became famous for its reliability and stability, even under the toughest racing conditions. Despite these successes, Mercedes-Benz stopped participating in motor sport in the USA due to cost reasons.
But the legend lives on! Almost 30 years after the SLS's unprecedented winning streak, Georg Distler, an entrepreneur from Munich, Germany, who is also a keen classic car enthusiast and racing driver, owned an original Mercedes-Benz 300 SL roadster from 1957. Bought in 1986, this car was the ideal starting point for reviving Paul O'Shea's idea and recreating a race-worthy 300 SLS with the intention to do one thing: participate in one of the toughest rallies: the 'Carrera Panamericana'.
Organised for five consecutive years from 1950 to 1954, the Carrera Panamericana was an over-2,000-mile border-to-border race held on the Pan-American Highway in Mexico. Similar to the Mille Miglia and Targa Florio in Italy, it was widely held to be the most dangerous automobile race in the world, and in recent times been resurrected as a classic rally along some of the original course. In 1952, the Carrera Panamericana had been one of the events chosen to showcase Mercedes-Benz's return to international motor sport in the post-war era. Driving one of the three new W194 (300 SL) works racers entered, Karl Kling and Hans Klenk completed the challenging course at an average speed of 165.095 km/h (102.59 mph) to secure an historic victory for the German manufacturer.
Georg Distler's infectious enthusiasm for this major project knew no bounds and even affected Albrecht Lorenz, who had made himself a name as the 'Godfather of the 300 SL' and was well acquainted with its technology having worked as an engineer for Mercedes-Benz for over 50 years. Together, the two SL fans began researching the original plans of Paul O'Shea's car in the archives of Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart, and as it happened luck was on their side. And so they started their ambitious project: the 1:1 plans of the aluminium body were copied by Zagato in Italy, and under the direction of Gabriele Artom and his divinely gifted and meticulous bodywork engineers, Georg Distler turned his dream into reality. The team also included HK Engineering, which handled the technical implementation.
In addition to the aluminium body, noteworthy features include lightened seat frames, US-specification headlights, dual side-exit exhaust system, Getrag five-speed gearbox, disc brakes, electric cooling fan, oil cooler, and alternator electrics. The engine internals have been polished and balanced, and a modern safety fuel tank installed in the spare wheel recess. This mammoth project lasted for two years and was finally completed in 1997, and the accompanying Classic Data report testifies to the Mercedes' top quality construction. Two comprehensive files detailing the build come with the car.
Forty years after the 300 SLS's magnificent racing successes, this unique racing sports car began to make history all over again. In 1997 Georg Distler set off from the Carrera Panamericana starting line in his 300 SLS, as a private driver with no supporting service vehicle, in one of the world's toughest and most notorious races. Seven days of pure motor racing pleasure and pain, as well as 3,500 kilometres, lay ahead of him. But even before the race started, the 300 SLS had to overcome yet another challenge; just like Paul O'Shea's original car, Georg Distler's was only designed to carry a driver and therefore had no roll-bar for the co-driver. As this roll-bar was a mandatory safety requirement, the car had to be upgraded in a hurry. Unfortunately, Georg incurred a five-minute time penalty, which was added to his finishing time.
Even the roll-bar issue could not prevent Georg Distler from succeeding at the 1997 Carrera Panamericana with his 300 SLS, coming home a class winner and in 11th place overall. One of 67 finishers in a field of 92 starters, Georg Distler's 300 SLS had demonstrated the same reliability as Paul O'Shea's original and made it through the toughest days' racing without any complaints. Indeed, although Georg had a box full of spare parts with him, he took it back unused. Unfortunately, Paul O'Shea did not live long enough to witness the fantastic success of this astounding car, which was based on his unique specifications.
Georg Distler has continued to compete in the major classic car races in his Mercedes-Benz 300 SLS: Hockenheim, Nürburgring, Oschersleben, Salzburgring, A1-Ring, Gaisberg, Roßfeld, Tour de France and Tropheo Baleares, and can always be found among the leaders of the pack. A unique re-creation of a famous and highly successful Mercedes-Benz sports-racer, this magnificent 300 SLS wants for nothing except an enthusiastic new owner willing to carry on the legend.
W198-II
Mercedes SL - History and Evolution of a Legend
Presented by Thierry Halff
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2024
Zoute Sale - Bonhams
Estimated : € 80.000 - 100.000
Sold for € 115.000
Zoute Grand Prix 2021
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2021
"It proved to be fast and tireless, exhilarating to drive and was probably created with long distance, comfortable travel in mind..." - Autocar on the Mercedes-Benz 190SL, 10th January 1956.
For those insufficiently wealthy to afford its hyper-expensive race-bred sports car - the 300 SL - Mercedes-Benz offered the less exotic but no less refined 190 SL. Announced in 1954 and based on the 180 saloon whose all-independently-suspended running gear it used, the 190 SL did not enter production until January 1955, the delay being caused by alterations aimed at strengthening the saloon's shortened platform to compensate for the open body's reduced stiffness. "Very few new sports cars have been so eagerly awaited or so long in coming as the moderately priced SL version of the Mercedes-Benz," observed Road & Track magazine. Mounted on a detachable sub-frame along with the four-speed manual gearbox, front suspension and steering, the power unit was a 1,897cc overhead-camshaft four - the first such engine ever to feature in a Mercedes-Benz. Breathing through twin Solex downdraft carburettors, the M121 unit produced 105bhp DIN (120bhp SAE) at 5,700rpm, an output sufficient to propel the 190 SL to 100km/h (62mph) in 14.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 171km/h (106mph). With its four-speed, all-synchromesh gearbox, servo-assisted hydraulic drum brakes and fully independent suspension, the 190 SL was both more refined and more comfortable than any contemporary British sports car. The model was a big hit in the USA where many of the slightly fewer than 26,000 produced between 1955 and 1963 found homes.
This particular 190 SL was manufactured on 1st July 1960 at Mercedes-Benz's Sindelfingen plant and has the standard four-speed manual gearbox. Unfortunately, nothing is known of its history prior to 8th October 2002 when the car was bought by Sigma System GmbH of Düsseldorf and registered as a company car. In 2005, the Mercedes was purchased one by H Werner, and a service and conversion to front disc brakes carried out.
In 2010, the 190 SL was sold by Klassik Garage Kronberg to one M Becker and serviced by them on 16th April 2013. Some five years later, in 2015, Klassik Garage Kronberg again sold the car, on this occasion to one to H Frey. On 20th May 2016 Klassik Garage Kronberg serviced the Mercedes, including a cylinder head overhaul, before buying it back again on 14th September 2017.
Known to Klassik Garage Kronberg since 2010, this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL has been maintained with considerable emphasis placed on mechanical and cosmetic perfection by the last two owners. Finished in the attractive colour combination of silver metallic with blue leather interior, the latter featuring a Becker radio, this consummate Mercedes-Benz boulevard cruiser is certain to delight the fortunate next owner.
R107
Collection Freddy Deklerck
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 45.000 - 65.000
Sold for € 40.250
'Flagship of the Mercedes convertible range, the five-litre 500 SL with its superb four-speed automatic transmission is one of the quickest automatics around. Refined engine is matched by the smoothness of the gear changes... Excellent roadholding with brakes to match. Comfortable and roomy for two, with well-fitting hood and hardtop.' – Autocar.
Luxuriously equipped and superbly finished in the best traditions of Mercedes-Benz's top-of-the-range models, the 500 SL convertible and 500 SLC coupé were introduced at the Geneva Salon in March 1980 alongside the outwardly similar 380SL/SLC. The '500' featured the all-alloy overhead-camshaft V8 engine that had debuted in the 450 SLC 5.0 of 1977; more powerful yet less thirsty than the existing V8, this new 5.0-litre unit produced 240bhp at 5,000rpm, an output sufficient to propel the 500 SL to 225km/h (140mph). Although shorter in the wheelbase than the 450, the newcomer retained its predecessor's attractive and long-established body style, which now featured spoilers front and rear. The state-of-the-art running gear too remained essentially unchanged, though improvements were made to the all-independent suspension and to the brakes. Four-speed automatic transmission was standard.
This example of the range-topping 500 SL was delivered new in Germany. Exported to the USA early in its life (the mid-1980s), the Mercedes returned to Europe in 2011, finding a new owner in Holland, and shortly thereafter moved to the current vendor's private collection. Finished in Champagne metallic with original dark brown leather interior, the latter in excellent condition, this 500 SL incorporates numerous options including air conditioning, heated seats, and a Becker Mexico radio. Described by the vendor as in full working order, this example has a recorded mileage of 50,000 miles (approximately 80,400 kilometres) which is believed to be genuine mileage from new as confirmed by the stamped service book. The car is offered with the Netherlands registration papers and its original pouch containing instruction manuals, factory brochure, and the original German service book.
Car: Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG Kompressor Auto.
Engine: 5438cc V8.
Power: 493 BHP.
Fuel: Petrol.
Year of manufacture: 2004.
Date of first registration in the UK: 27th October 2004.
Place of registration: Not known.
Date of last MOT: 22nd June 2024.
Mileage at last MOT: 135,682.
Date of last V5 issued: 27th April 2021.
Date taken: 1st September 2024.
W196S
Daimler-Benz developed this hardtop version of the 300 SLR racing car for the 1956 season. It was never used in racing, however, because the company ceased its motorsport activities at the end of the 1955 season. Instead, the 300 SLR coupé served the head of the Test Department, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, as a company car. The nickname 'Uhlenhaut coupé' is a reminder of this.
2.982 cc
8 Cylinder
302 PS @ 7.500 rpm
Vmax : 290 km/h
2 ex.
Mercedes-Benz Museum
Mercedesstraße 100
Stuttgart
Deutschland - Germany
December 2013 / July 2014
Bus Éireann (Cork) Scania Omnilink SL 21 (09-C-251) in the Cork University Hospital 30th November 2009.
R107
First introduced in 1971/72, the luxurious 450 SL convertible and 450 SLC coupé were outwardly identical to their '350' (3,5-litre) sister models, though endowed with superior performance courtesy of a more-powerful 4.5-litre V8 engine. The convertible was vastly the more popular of the two, outselling the coupé more by than 2 to 1 before production ceased in 1980. Maximum speed of these superbly equipped top-of-the-range models was in excess of 210km/h.
This immaculate, California-supplied Mercedes Benz 450SL convertible is presented in outstanding condition, having seen little use and been kept garaged throughout its entire life. The car comes with a black fabric convertible top and its original Mercedes-Benz detachable hardtop. We are advised by the vendor that the maroon metallic paintwork is pristine with no fading, scratches or blemishes whatsoever, and that there is not a hint of corrosion to be found anywhere. The similarly well preserved interior is trimmed in black hide with matching carpets, while the under-bonnet area is utterly original and exactly as it left the factory.
The car was fully checked over by a Mercedes-Benz dealer shortly after its arrival in the UK in 2015, while four new tyres were fitted recently. This 450SL convertible looks, runs and drives just like a new car and is a wonderful testament to the care of its previous American owner. Indeed only by means of a close inspection can one begin to appreciate just what an exceptional example this is. As the saying goes: 'The quality remains long after the price is forgotten'. The car is offered with a UK V5C registration document, sundry invoices, and its original book pack including the service booklet detailing its from-new service history in the USA.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 31.050
Estimated : € 20.000 - 25.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
Mercedes SL 65 AMG
R230
5.000 km
€ 260.000
6,0 Liter
V12
753 PS
1.320 Nm
Retro Classics Cologne 2017
Koelnmesse
Köln - Cologne
Deutschland - Germany
November 2017
W113
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Estimated : € 85.000 - 115.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
'Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better,' concluded Road & Track after testing a 280 SL in 1968. 'For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it's alone in the field,' enthused the highly respected American motoring magazine, 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).'
These attributes help explain the 280 SL's 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; indeed, many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs.
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 horsepower more than the preceding 250SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60mph 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 in San Diego, California and remained with its first owner from until 1996. Noteworthy features include the four-speed manual transmission, tinted glass, full leather interior, original Bosch radio, dark brown soft-top (in good condition), and working air conditioning. In 1996, the Mercedes passed into the hands of its second owner and moved to Holland, since when it has always been maintained in that country by Mercedes-Benz, Elburg. In 1997, the car was re-sprayed, the front seats being refurbished and the carpets renewed at the same time, while the rest of the interior is said to be original and in excellent condition. The paintwork in the engine bay and other internal spaces is believed to be original.
The vendor informs us that the car has never suffered any accident damage and is free of rust; bodywork is reported as excellent, with spot-welds as per factory delivery. Accompanying documentation consists of the original Mercedes-Benz Datacard; invoices for the period 2011-2014 (circa € 10.000); Dutch registration papers; valid Dutch roadworthiness certificate; and all books including the service booklet: stamped from 1969 to 1996. Presented in generally excellent condition, this beautiful 280 SL runs and drives well and is ready for the next owner to enjoy.
W198II
Originally sold to a customer in Toronto, Canada, by the local Mercedes company in September 1959, this 300 SL Roadster was acquired by the current owner during a vacation in Florida in March 1986. Since then he has covered over 70.000 km all over Europe at its wheel without the slightest problem. Totally restored between 1987 and 1990, this car was awarded first prize in the Grand Touring category at the 1991 Louis Vuitton Concours d'Elegance at Bagatelle.
Class IX : 60th Anniversary Mercedes 300 SL
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2017
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2017
W198-II
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 PS
275 Nm
Vmax : 250 km/h
Techno Classica 2012
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
March 2012
R107
First introduced in 1971/72, the luxurious 450 SL convertible and 450 SLC coupé were outwardly identical to their '350' (3,5-litre) sister models, though endowed with superior performance courtesy of a more-powerful 4.5-litre V8 engine. The convertible was vastly the more popular of the two, outselling the coupé more by than 2 to 1 before production ceased in 1980. Maximum speed of these superbly equipped top-of-the-range models was in excess of 210km/h.
This immaculate, California-supplied Mercedes Benz 450SL convertible is presented in outstanding condition, having seen little use and been kept garaged throughout its entire life. The car comes with a black fabric convertible top and its original Mercedes-Benz detachable hardtop. We are advised by the vendor that the maroon metallic paintwork is pristine with no fading, scratches or blemishes whatsoever, and that there is not a hint of corrosion to be found anywhere. The similarly well preserved interior is trimmed in black hide with matching carpets, while the under-bonnet area is utterly original and exactly as it left the factory.
The car was fully checked over by a Mercedes-Benz dealer shortly after its arrival in the UK in 2015, while four new tyres were fitted recently. This 450SL convertible looks, runs and drives just like a new car and is a wonderful testament to the care of its previous American owner. Indeed only by means of a close inspection can one begin to appreciate just what an exceptional example this is. As the saying goes: 'The quality remains long after the price is forgotten'. The car is offered with a UK V5C registration document, sundry invoices, and its original book pack including the service booklet detailing its from-new service history in the USA.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 31.050
Estimated : € 20.000 - 25.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
W113
Collection Freddy Deklerck
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Sold for € 66.700
'For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it's alone in the field,' enthused Road & Track magazine, 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).'
These attributes help explain the 280 SL's 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, and many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs.
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 180bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 200km/h top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-100km/h time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Autocar was full of praise for the 280 SL's effortless performance: 'Those going abroad will be pleased to know that the 280 SL can sustain 160km/h with ease, and still have a good bit in hand for surging up to 120mph when traffic and conditions permit. All the time the engine is smooth and it has a sweet song to its exhaust note, which starts as a deep throb and builds up to a busy hum at maximum revs.'
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 unmolested and highly original example was bought by the current Belgian owner in 2005 through a dealer from the first lady owner in Lausanne, Switzerland it is believed. The car has clearly been well looked-after; the doors close excellently - just like new - and we believe it has only had a re-spray. Other than that, this SL is highly original and in very good condition, while the vendor advises us it is in full working order. The car is offered with Swiss paperwork and proof of EU taxes paid.
W198II
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
Estimated : € 1.000.000 - 1.200.000
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 gull-wing 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 gull-wing 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 outlive 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.
Chassis number '8500289', the Roadster offered here, was delivered new to France on 21st October 1958. Originally finished in Ivory (DB 608), the same as it is today, this example is equipped with all of the features common to European-specification Roadsters, most notably the one-piece headlights. The accompanying Mercedes-Benz Classic Certificate records this Roadster's original engine as '8500292', which it retains. Other noteworthy features include the optional Becker Mexico radio and a set of correct fitted luggage with plaid liners.
Owned by a Mr Porter of Kensington, London, UK in 1991, the Mercedes was sold the following year to José Beltrán, the Mercedes-Benz dealer in Barcelona, Spain. Mr Beltrán kept the car for 19 years and in 2008 displayed it at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Days at Brooklands. The Roadster was restored during Mr Beltrán's ownership (circa 2001), reportedly using only Mercedes-Benz parts, and the colour scheme changed to Fire Engine Red with Parchment upholstery at the same time. Since its acquisition by the current vendor the Roadster has been returned to its original Ivory/black combination.
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.
Car: Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG Kompressor Auto.
Engine: 5438cc V8.
Power: 493 BHP.
Top Speed: 155 MPH.
0-60: 3.8 s.
Fuel: Petrol.
Weight: 1,398 kg.
Body: 2 door roadster.
Layout: Front engine, rear wheel drive.
Years of production: 2001 to 2011.
Date taken: 27th July 2025.
R230
Bonhams : the Zoute Sale
Estimated : € 260.000 - 320.000
Sold for € 270.250
Zoute Grand Prix 2018
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2018
'For anyone wishing to give their Mercedes that extra personal touch, Mercedes-AMG GmbH has just the answers. The Daimler-Chrysler subsidiary offers the combined experience of Mercedes-Benz and AMG in the field of high-quality enhancements for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and puts the emphasis firmly on individuality when creating the customer's dream Mercedes.' - Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
AMG, which is now the official performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has a long history of producing high-performance derivatives of Mercedes' standard production vehicles, and these improved versions enjoy an enthusiastic following world-wide, with prominent figures of the motor sports, entertainment, sport and business communities being counted among aficionados.
Offered here is a beautiful SL65 AMG Black Series, the third of this evocatively titled and exclusive limited-edition family that had begun with SLK55 of 2006. Intended as even more highly developed versions of Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance models, the Black Series consists of two-seater fixed-head coupé designs only. In the case of the SL65, this meant abandoning the 'ordinary' version's folding metal hardtop in favour of a fixed carbon fibre roof, which also made room for the Black Series' retractable rear spoiler. This insane SL was pushing the boundaries of the AMG badge to the max. This version was developed in the newly created AMG Performance Studio which was a division of AMG, showcasing the cars their newly devised department could create, with an 'Anything is Possible' attitude. The 'SL65 Black Series' was the pinnacle of this ethos.
The SL65 AMG Black Series was unveiled at Monterey in 2008. The base-car SL65 AMG's 6.0-litre V12 engine was retained for the Black Series but received larger turbochargers, a bigger inter-cooler, a new exhaust system, and a suitably remapped ECU, resulting in an increase in maximum power to 670bhp (approximately a 10% improvement over the stock SL65 AMG) while torque went up to a mighty 737lb/ft, delivered between 2,200 and 4,200 revs. AMG's engineers not only increased engine output but also trimmed 250kg (550lb) off the car's all-up weight courtesy of additional carbon fibre panels, further improving the power-to-weight ratio. The result was a 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds, while top speed was electronically limited to 320km/h.
The extraordinary engine specifications made the SL 65 AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG model at the time! This stupendous performance reached the road via AMG's Speedshift Plus multi-mode five-speed automatic gearbox. As one would expect, given the Black Series raison d'être, the chassis too underwent considerable modification, featuring quicker steering, wider front and rear track, and redesigned suspension in the interests of enhanced roadholding and controllability. Mercedes-Benz recognised that many Black Series customers would wish to enjoy their cars on the racetrack (where else could one safely enjoy its performance to the full?) and thoughtfully made the multi-link rear suspension adjustable. The SL65 AMG Black Series rolled on AMG light-alloy wheels - 19.5" at the front, 20" at the rear - while stopping power was provided by 6-pot callipers at the front, 4-pot at the rear. Only 350 of these amazing cars were made, and all found customers despite a stratospheric asking price of €330,000 without options.
Still the most powerful standard road-going Mercedes-Benz AMG to date, this pristine example has covered a mere 6,300 kilometres from new and is finished in arguably the best colour combination of silver with black interior (as one can imagine, most are black!). One of only approximately 175 examples destined for Europe (most went to the USA or Asia), it is one of only 5 delivered new to France.
Delivered in September 2009, the car has been well maintained and is presented in excellent 'as new' condition, as one would expect from its low odometer reading. The accompanying maintenance history printout records services at Mercedes-Benz Paris in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and in August 2018, the latter at 6,318 kilometres. This car also comes equipped with every conceivable option, the very embodiment of the phrase 'fully loaded' (detailed specification available). Offered with all books and tools, it represents a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire one of these fabulous limited-edition supercars, the like of which Mercedes most probably will never produce again – an incredible aggressive looking beast!
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
W121
1.897 cc
4 in-line
120 hp @ 5.700 rpm
Vmax : 112 mph
25.881 ex.
Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands
Weybridge
United Kingdom
December 2018
R230
Bonhams : the Zoute Sale
Estimated : € 260.000 - 320.000
Sold for € 270.250
Zoute Grand Prix 2018
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2018
'For anyone wishing to give their Mercedes that extra personal touch, Mercedes-AMG GmbH has just the answers. The Daimler-Chrysler subsidiary offers the combined experience of Mercedes-Benz and AMG in the field of high-quality enhancements for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and puts the emphasis firmly on individuality when creating the customer's dream Mercedes.' - Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
AMG, which is now the official performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has a long history of producing high-performance derivatives of Mercedes' standard production vehicles, and these improved versions enjoy an enthusiastic following world-wide, with prominent figures of the motor sports, entertainment, sport and business communities being counted among aficionados.
Offered here is a beautiful SL65 AMG Black Series, the third of this evocatively titled and exclusive limited-edition family that had begun with SLK55 of 2006. Intended as even more highly developed versions of Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance models, the Black Series consists of two-seater fixed-head coupé designs only. In the case of the SL65, this meant abandoning the 'ordinary' version's folding metal hardtop in favour of a fixed carbon fibre roof, which also made room for the Black Series' retractable rear spoiler. This insane SL was pushing the boundaries of the AMG badge to the max. This version was developed in the newly created AMG Performance Studio which was a division of AMG, showcasing the cars their newly devised department could create, with an 'Anything is Possible' attitude. The 'SL65 Black Series' was the pinnacle of this ethos.
The SL65 AMG Black Series was unveiled at Monterey in 2008. The base-car SL65 AMG's 6.0-litre V12 engine was retained for the Black Series but received larger turbochargers, a bigger inter-cooler, a new exhaust system, and a suitably remapped ECU, resulting in an increase in maximum power to 670bhp (approximately a 10% improvement over the stock SL65 AMG) while torque went up to a mighty 737lb/ft, delivered between 2,200 and 4,200 revs. AMG's engineers not only increased engine output but also trimmed 250kg (550lb) off the car's all-up weight courtesy of additional carbon fibre panels, further improving the power-to-weight ratio. The result was a 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds, while top speed was electronically limited to 320km/h.
The extraordinary engine specifications made the SL 65 AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG model at the time! This stupendous performance reached the road via AMG's Speedshift Plus multi-mode five-speed automatic gearbox. As one would expect, given the Black Series raison d'être, the chassis too underwent considerable modification, featuring quicker steering, wider front and rear track, and redesigned suspension in the interests of enhanced roadholding and controllability. Mercedes-Benz recognised that many Black Series customers would wish to enjoy their cars on the racetrack (where else could one safely enjoy its performance to the full?) and thoughtfully made the multi-link rear suspension adjustable. The SL65 AMG Black Series rolled on AMG light-alloy wheels - 19.5" at the front, 20" at the rear - while stopping power was provided by 6-pot callipers at the front, 4-pot at the rear. Only 350 of these amazing cars were made, and all found customers despite a stratospheric asking price of €330,000 without options.
Still the most powerful standard road-going Mercedes-Benz AMG to date, this pristine example has covered a mere 6,300 kilometres from new and is finished in arguably the best colour combination of silver with black interior (as one can imagine, most are black!). One of only approximately 175 examples destined for Europe (most went to the USA or Asia), it is one of only 5 delivered new to France.
Delivered in September 2009, the car has been well maintained and is presented in excellent 'as new' condition, as one would expect from its low odometer reading. The accompanying maintenance history printout records services at Mercedes-Benz Paris in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and in August 2018, the latter at 6,318 kilometres. This car also comes equipped with every conceivable option, the very embodiment of the phrase 'fully loaded' (detailed specification available). Offered with all books and tools, it represents a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire one of these fabulous limited-edition supercars, the like of which Mercedes most probably will never produce again – an incredible aggressive looking beast!
W198
Estimated : CHF 1.100.000 - 1.400.000
Unsold
The Bonmont Sale
Collectors' Motor Cars - Bonhams
Golf & Country Club de Bonmont
Chéserex
Switzerland - Suisse - Schweiz
September 2019
'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 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 2,996cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL's engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215bhp (DIN) at 5,800rpm 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 0-60mph (0-97km/h) in 7.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140mph (225km/h). 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.
The accompanying copy of this Gullwing's factory data sheet, issued 7th June 1955, shows that it was sold new to Mr Alfred Rogers of Montreal, Canada. This document also records that the car was originally finished in black with red leather interior, the same colour scheme it has today, and that it was ordered with, among other options, special high-gloss paintwork, sealed-beam headlights, instruments in English, and special upholstery. The Mercedes stayed in Canada until at least 1989 when it was owned by Mr Fred Wegner of Woodbridge, Ontario. Previously owned by Mr Jochen Hackbarth of Hamburg, Germany, the Mercedes was purchased by the current vendor from Axel Schuette in August 1993.
Also on file is a professional condition and valuation report, compiled in December 2016 after the Gullwing had been restored, which confirms that the numbers on the chassis, body, and engine match those on the aforementioned data sheet. The odometer reading when the car was inspected was 1 kilometre, the same as it is today. This report is highly complimentary, remarking on the quality of the body, paintwork, brightwork, glass (replaced in its entirety), interior (fully re-trimmed), and chassis frame (plastic coated). It also states that the engine and differential had been overhauled, and it is worth noting that the body repairs and paintwork were entrusted to master craftsman Karl Lindermüller, one of the best specialists in the business.
Offered with German Fahrzeugbrief, this outstanding example of, arguably, the most charismatic of all post-war sports cars is presented in excellent condition and is worthy of the closest inspection.
W113
Collection Freddy Deklerck
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Sold for € 66.700
'For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it's alone in the field,' enthused Road & Track magazine, 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).'
These attributes help explain the 280 SL's 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, and many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs.
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 180bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 200km/h top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-100km/h time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Autocar was full of praise for the 280 SL's effortless performance: 'Those going abroad will be pleased to know that the 280 SL can sustain 160km/h with ease, and still have a good bit in hand for surging up to 120mph when traffic and conditions permit. All the time the engine is smooth and it has a sweet song to its exhaust note, which starts as a deep throb and builds up to a busy hum at maximum revs.'
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 unmolested and highly original example was bought by the current Belgian owner in 2005 through a dealer from the first lady owner in Lausanne, Switzerland it is believed. The car has clearly been well looked-after; the doors close excellently - just like new - and we believe it has only had a re-spray. Other than that, this SL is highly original and in very good condition, while the vendor advises us it is in full working order. The car is offered with Swiss paperwork and proof of EU taxes paid.
R231
5.980 cc
V12
630 hp
Max : 250 km/h
Expo : Dream Cars for Wishes
91° European Motor Show Brussels : Auto, Moto & Van
Autosalon Brussel
Salon de l'Auto Bruxelles
Brussels - Belgium
January 2013
R107
1980 - 1985
3.818 cc
V8
218 PS
Vmax : 215 km/h
EFA Museum
Museum für Deutsche Automobilgeschichte
Wasserburger Str. 38
Amerang
Deutschland - Germany
September 2016
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