View allAll Photos Tagged SLClass
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.
W194
Chassis n° 2
2.996 cc
6 in-line
170 PS
254 Nm
Vmax : 230 km/h
Techno Classica 2012
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
March 2012
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
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Estimated : € 60.000 - 70.000
Sold for € 74.750
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
- Single family ownership from new
- Fully optioned
- Automatic transmission
- Full Mercedes-Benz service history
- Registered in the Netherlands
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 380 SL/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 240 bhp at 5.000 rpm, an output sufficient to propel the 500 SL to 225 km/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.
Enjoying all the benefits of single family ownership from new, this meticulously cared-for, Mercedes-Benz dealer-maintained 500 SL convertible has covered a mere 88,060 kilometres from new and is presented in commensurately excellent condition. Fully optioned (list available), it comes complete with all books and tools, plus rare Mercedes-Benz accessories to include a picnic set, blanket, luggage trunk, and umbrella. Accompanying documentation consists of Netherlands registration papers, technical inspection certificate, and full Mercedes-Benz service history including bills.
R129
V12 Supercars
6,9 Litre
V12
509 hp
Interclassics Brussels 2025
Brussels Expo
Brussel - Bruxelles - Brussels
Belgium
November 2025
W198
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 PS
Vmax : 235 - 260 km/h
Techno Classica 2019
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
April 2019
R107
4.986 cc
V8
320 bhp
Class XIII : Special Display Classes
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 pk
Van Mossel Museum
Jan Vestersstraat 1
Waalwijk
Nederland - Netherlands
May 2024
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
W113
'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; 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 180bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120mph 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.
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 100mph 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 280 SL was sold new in Paris in January 1969. The car left the factory equipped with the extremely rare and highly desirable five-speed manual gearbox, while other items of special equipment included a coupé hardtop, left-side door mirror, Becker Grand Prix radio, automatic antenna, and a convertible hood in black. The car's first owners were a Mr and Mrs Coppex living on the Faubourg St Honoré in Paris (see warranty booklet). They later moved to the South of France and kept the car registered there until 2002 (copy of local Certificat d'Immatriculation on file). The 280 SL was regularly serviced, as evidenced by various stamps in the booklet, and even went to Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart in 1985 for works totalling 8,000 DM, an enormous sum at that time (original invoice on file). In 2002 the car was sold and acquired by Geert De Moor, a renowned Mercedes-Benz collector. Mr De Moor kept the 280 SL for 11 years without registering it, driving it occasionally on his other plates. During his ownership, the car was re-sprayed in its original red metallic colour and received a new beige hood, which it still has today, while the cognac coloured MB-Tex interior is still completely original apart from new carpets. No other restoration works whatsoever have been carried out and this wonderful 280 SL remains in outstandingly original condition, having never been dismantled since it left the factory, a rare attribute for a Pagoda.
In 2013 the Mercedes was sold to its third owner, who kept the car garaged and drove it only occasionally; indeed, the odometer reading today is only 107,000 kilometres. Described as in generally excellent condition, this quite exceptional 280 SL comes with its original factory data card, owner's manual, warranty booklet and service booklet, and two original pouches. Also included is the original manual and warranty card for the Becker Grand Prix radio, which is still fitted and functional.
The Zoute Sale
Bonhams
Sold for € 230.000
Estimated : € 200.000 - 300.000
Zoute Grand Prix 2016
Knokke - Belgium
Oktober 2016
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
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.
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
Class XIII : Special Display Classes
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2017
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2017
W198
This 300 SL Gullwing was delivered through Max Hoffman's New York dealership, in Light Metallic Blue over red leather, and equipped with Rudge knock-off wheels and a fitted luggage set. These are the most desirable factory options for the 300 SL. First owner was Raymond Maggard of San Pedro. Maggard served as a captain in the US Army during WW2. Later he became the 1947 NCCA pole vault champion. The car was sold on and repainted in Graphite Grey but otherwise kept in original condition with original details such as the Bosch headlamp rings, the carpet in the boot and the Rudge wheels to prove. A matching luggage set completed this very original car.
Class IV : Post-War Closed
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2019
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2019
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
A Formular 1 safety car: Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
If you want to see more micro-MOC (with instructions), check out the following book, for which I contributed some models:
Or check out my rebrickable page:
W113
2.306 cc
6 in-line
170 PS @ 5.600 rpm
Vmax : 200 km/h
1.295 kg
Pantheon Basel
Forum für Oldtimer
Hofacker 72
Basel
Swiss - Schweiz
March 2017
W198II
Re-creation to SLS aluminium competition specifications
Bonhams : the Chantilly Sale
Estimated : € 1.500.000 - 2.500.000
Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille
Château de Chantilly
Chantilly
France - Frankrijk
September 2017
W198II
2.996 cc
6 in-line
190 hp
Class XIII : Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2022
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2022
W198
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 PS
Vmax : 235 - 260 km/h
Techno Classica 2019
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
April 2019
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.
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
W198
This 300 SL Gullwing was delivered through Max Hoffman's New York dealership, in Light Metallic Blue over red leather, and equipped with Rudge knock-off wheels and a fitted luggage set. These are the most desirable factory options for the 300 SL. First owner was Raymond Maggard of San Pedro. Maggard served as a captain in the US Army during WW2. Later he became the 1947 NCCA pole vault champion. The car was sold on and repainted in Graphite Grey but otherwise kept in original condition with original details such as the Bosch headlamp rings, the carpet in the boot and the Rudge wheels to prove. A matching luggage set completed this very original car.
Class IV : Post-War Closed
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2019
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2019
W113
Estimated : € 125.000 - 145.000
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2018
This stunning 280 SL was delivered on 10 December 1968 to its first owner through a dealership in Kassel, Germany. Specified in Red (576) with contrasting Cognac (8070) leatherette interior, it was fitted with four-speed automatic transmission and power steering.
Later imported to California where it remained for at least 10 years, the warm climate protected the bodywork, which the current owner reports shows no evidence of accident damage. Subsequently returned to Europe around a decade ago, a sympathetic restoration was carried out in Germany by a Mercedes specialist. The immaculate paintwork retained the original colour, and the interior was refreshed. It also retained the correct Becker Mexico radio and Bosch Lichteinheit headlights rather than the U.S. sealed beam units.
It was bought by the current owner during a trip to the Essen Techno Classica a few years ago. Fully restored prior to his purchase, the current owner has undertaken a full engine rebuild with a marque expert in the UK and has recently fitted a new soft top in addition to its iconic hardtop. He reports it now runs perfectly, still retaining its original engine.
Current Pagoda 280 SL owners who appreciate its elegance, refinement, and abilities include F1 racing drivers Nico Rosberg and David Coulthard and needless to say, it attracted a lot of attention with the notable individuals when new as well, with famous buyers including Sophia Loren and John Lennon. Furthermore, the cost of restoring a 280 SL can easily eclipse six figures, making freshly restored examples highly desirable. Here is the opportunity to join them by acquiring a beautiful automobile that will remain popular and collectable for years to come.
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.
R231
Class XIII : Special Display Classes
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2017
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2017
W198
For many, this is the first true supercar. Originally, it was a pure racing car - type name SLR - of which only 10 were built in 1952. Between 1955 and 1957, 1.400 Gullwings were produced : it was the first production car with fuel injection. A key feature was its extremely rigid construction thanks to a tubular chassis. What captures the imagination most are the gullwing doors, which inspired many nicknames. 29 ex. with aluminum bodywork were also built, resulting in a weight saving of 158 kg. The 300 SL has long been a benchmark in classic car valuation, somewhat like the gold standard.
2.996 cc
6 In-line
215 hp
Mercedes - The Story of the Star
19/09/2025 - 22/02/2026
Autoworld
Brussels - Belgium
February 2026
W121
Class A1 : Expo ‘Barnfind & Preservation Cars’ 1889-1960
Original Belgian delivery, original condition, parked since 1978 in Antwerp garage, unique timewarp.
Antwerp Concours 2013
"Great Cars, Great Scenery"
Kasteel Belvédère
Wijnegem - Antwerp
Belgium
September 2023
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.
First prototype of 5 pre-series prototypes
Salon Retromobile 2016
Paris Expo - Porte de Versailles
Paris - France
Februari 2016
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
Car: Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (R107).
Date of registration: 1st January 1983.
Date taken: 14th January 2018.
Location: Queen Square, Bristol, UK.
W121
Haynes International Motor Museum
Sparkford
Yeovil - Somerset
England - United kingdom
November 2018
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
R230
5.439 cc
V8
500 pk
Vmax : 250 km/h
0-100 km/h : 4,7 sec
Class XIII : Special Display Classes
Zoute Concours d'Elegance
The Royal Zoute Golf Club
Zoute Grand Prix 2017
Knokke - Zoute
België - Belgium
October 2017
C107
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 30.000 - 40.000
Sold for € 22.425
Introduced in 1977, the luxurious 450 SLC 5.0 coupé was powered by a new 4.990 cc aluminium-alloy V8 engine that was both lighter and more powerful than the existing 4.5-litre unit. The use of aluminium extended to the bonnet, boot, and wheels, the result being a reduction in weight of over 100kg when compared to the 'old' 450 SLC. With a lower-drag bodyshell, courtesy of spoilers front and rear, the '5.0' was also more efficient aerodynamically than its predecessor, which further reduced fuel consumption, an increasingly important issue, even for sports cars. Not sold in the USA, traditionally Mercedes-Benz's most important market, the '5.0' was built in correspondingly limited numbers, only 2.769 being completed between 1977 and 1981. Maximum speed of this superbly equipped top-of-the-range coupé was around 225 km/h.
This 450 SLC 5.0 was built to European specification and delivered new to RNS Motors in California as a 'grey import'. In 2004, the Mercedes was sold to Ted L Roberts of Fountain, Colorado, who kept it when he moved to Lynn Haven, Florida in 2010. In 2011 Jan Kok of Antwerp, Belgium purchased the car, which was sold to the present owner in 2015. Finished in Midnight Blue with cream leather upholstery, it is a matching-numbers, matching-colours example that has been well maintained and is presented in good solid condition. Representing a wonderful opportunity to own one of these rare and collectible 'factory hotrods', the car is offered with a maintenance history file and Netherlands registration papers.