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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!
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
'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
Car: Mercedes-Benz SL 320 Auto.
Engine: 3199cc in-line 6.
Power: 221 BHP.
Year of manufacture: 1998.
Date of first registration in the UK: 7th April 1998.
Place of registration: Not known.
Date of last MOT: 12th April 2024.
Mileage at last MOT: 22,112.
Date of last V5 issued: 16th August 2022.
Date taken: 1st June 2024.
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
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
Car: Mercedes-Benz SL 280 auto.
Engine: 2799cc in-line 4.
Year of manufacture: 1997.
Date of first registration in the UK: 30th October 1997.
Place of registration: Dudley.
Date of last MOT: 4th July 2023.
Mileage at last MOT: 144,432.
Date of last change of keeper: 31st July 2018.
Number of previous keepers: 1.
Date taken: 17th September 2023.
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
C107
RM Sotheby's
Salles du Carrousel du Louvre
99 Rue de Rivoli
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2023
Estimated : € 800.000 - 1.100.000
Withdrawn
Car: Mercedes-Benz SL 280 auto.
Engine: 2799cc in-line 4.
Year of manufacture: 1997.
Date of first registration in the UK: 30th October 1997.
Place of registration: Dudley.
Date of last MOT: 4th July 2023.
Mileage at last MOT: 144,432.
Date of last change of keeper: 31st July 2018.
Number of previous keepers: 1.
Date taken: 17th September 2023.
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
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.
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
W198
2.996 cc
6 in-line
215 PS
Vmax : 235 - 260 km/h
Techno Classica 2019
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
April 2019
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:
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
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.
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
W121
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2019
Estimated : € 160.000 - 190.000
The 190SL was the vision of Max Hoffman, U.S. importer for Mercedes-Benz.
Hoffman wanted to capitalize on the success of the 300SL, a highly visible model that would bring the Mercedes-Benz marque much attention but was so expensive that it would amount to relatively few sales. At Hoffman's suggestion, Mercedes-Benz developed the 190SL on the W120 series 180 sedan chassis and announced it at the 1954 New York Auto Show as a prototype along with the road-going 300SL. It took about a year for the 190SL to appear at dealers.
SL stands for "Sports Leicht" but the 190SL was neither a sports car nor particularly light at 1160 kg. It was, on the other hand, aerodynamically efficient, comfortable and undeniably handsome, supplying a need apparent in America, its intended primary market, where two-seaters like the Thunderbird were appreciated as second cars for a growing middle class able to afford personal transportation even at the 190SL's generous price of just over $5,000 at the time.
The engine is a single overhead camshaft 1,897cc four-cylinder with a pair of Solex 44 PHH twin choke side draught carburetors and 8.8:1 compression ration that raised the output to 105 DIN horsepower, double that of the 180 sedan upon which it was based, and enough to give the little two-seater a top speed of 171 kph.
4-wheel drum brakes, conventional doors, leather seats and an improved single-pivot swing axle rear suspension complemented its conception for cruising rather than competing. As he so many times demonstrated, Max Hoffman's understanding of the right cars for the U.S. market was on target and the 190SL sold well even in mid-Fifties Europe. More than 26,000 190SLs were produced between 1955 and 1963, outselling the expensive 300SL by about eight to one.
Hoffman and Mercedes-Benz continued to develop the 190SL, during production offering removable hard tops in two styles (small and large rear windows) and accommodations for a third passenger in the tonneau with a side-facing accessory seat to widen its appeal. Features like the wheel well "eyebrows" linked it directly to its larger and more famous stablemate, the 300SL.
The 190SL has stood the test of time well. The characteristics of simplicity, reliability, styling, design and comfort that made it popular in the Fifties continue to resonate well with later generations. Mercedes-Benz style and quality have remained valued attributes. While a 190SL was half the price of a 300SL Roadster in the Fifties, today it is even more approachable at one-eighth the ticket of a 300SL Roadster in comparable condition.
Purchased by its present British collector owner as a restored car in 2014, this 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL is distinctively liveried in crisp black paint with attractively contrasting green leather upholstery, matching interior trim and a black cloth top.
It has had only five owners from new, the first two of whom, Drs. Thieden and Hansel in Germany, retained it for a total of 48 years. Dr. Hansel had it restored by renowned specialist Esdar Classic Cars in Bielefeld, Germany in 1990. The quality of Esdar Classic Cars' work is evident in its condition, nearly a decade after it was completed.
Since its acquisition it has been carefully and consistently maintained in the owner's own fully equipped shop and climate controlled facility staffed with highly experienced, trained and skilled technicians. Regularly started and attended to as needed to maintain it in ready-to-use condition, it is nearly pristine.
Equipment includes Marchal headlights, bumper overriders, colour-keyed hubcaps on factory wheels with understated blackwall tires, heater and a period multi-band radio.
The body panels are particularly attractive, evenly matched and displaying continuous, undistorted fit from front to rear. The engine compartment and chassis are essentially like new without undue embellishment. The chrome is bright and crisp, the upholstery and interior trim are taut and fresh. The top fits accurately and tightly, with good window and door seals. It has covered less than 15,000km since the restoration. Important and sometimes overlooked details such as the unblemished steering wheel rim, crisp instruments and bright interior chrome attest to its quality and consistent care.
In 1960 it would have been a second car for a successful professional or businessman, and it is so today, needing only a new owner to enjoy and experience it on the road or around town.
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
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.
W113
RM Sotheby's
Place Vauban
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2020
Estimated : € 60.000 - 80.000
Sold for € 62.100
Produced in August of 1969, this 280 SL was sold new to the U.S. and remained there for most of its life, allegedly passing through just two owners there, with the second owning it for thirty years. In 2011 the car had a full repaint in its current shade of dark red, and the engine was fully rebuilt at 27,000 miles. The following year it was exported to the UK from California following a light recommissioning. Importantly, the car is fitted with the automatic transmission and comes supplied with both its soft top and the iconic ‘Pagoda’ hard top. Furthermore, it is equipped with air conditioning, power windows, a modern Sony stereo, and colour-coded seat belts.
Just as fashionable today as it was fifty years ago, the W113-generation 280 SLs have proven to be an enduring Mercedes-Benz icon, second to only the first-generation ancestors, the 300 SL Gullwings and Roadsters. Paul Barcq’s styling created a car that was sophisticated and timeless, perfectly matched to the top-of-the-range 280 SL engine. More than capable of handling duties as a warm-weather daily driver, the 280 SL will surely remain popular for the next fifty years or more.
FV22 OPN (VIN - W1K2324802F001868)
3982cc / 469HP / Auto
Inapplicable for MOT
Seen - Listers Mercedes-Benz of Grimsby (DN37 7LG)
W198-II
RM Sotheby's
Salles du Carrousel du Louvre
99 Rue de Rivoli
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2023
Estimated : € 1.500.000 - 1.800.000
Sold for € 1.748.750
When the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL first broke cover in 1954, it presented a blinding vision of the future. A technological marvel, the revolutionary machine set a new performance benchmark that sent shockwaves through the automotive industry. From its bold yet beautiful aerodynamic styling to the cutting-edge mechanical fuel injection that afforded its straight-six such power, the incredible ‘Gullwing’ blew its competition out of the water. But perhaps what is most remarkable was that it achieved such performance while also proving to be one of the most elegant, chic and desirable automobiles of the decade—a car often hailed as the first true supercar.
The Gullwing quickly found favour with wealthy enthusiasts and automotive cognoscenti, but the 300 SL only fully captured the imagination of Hollywood’s elite with the arrival of the open Roadster variant in May 1957. Powered by the same 2,996-cc straight-six engine that drove the coupé, the Roadster was tuned for greater power to help offset a 125-kilogram increase in weight. The rear suspension, which in the Gullwing presented such a challenge to drivers when pushed to the limit, was modified with single-pivot trailing arms with a lower pivot point that offered more consistent handling. The car’s trademark “gullwing” doors, meanwhile, were changed to more conventional units allied with lower sills, that allowed for more a more elegant entry and exit—a must for any silver screen starlet arriving for a premier at the Egyptian Theatre.
As well as being more practical than its tin-top sibling, the 300 SL Roadster had greater longevity, remaining in production until 1963. Just 211 examples were built in 1959, among them chassis 9500070, which was destined for delivery to the United States. Finished in the deeply attractive yet rare combination of Hellblau over a Blau leather interior, the car was delivered via Studebaker-Packard of South Bend, Indiana, and was first registered in the United States on 1 March 1959. It would go on to be owned by John Hwang of Garden City, New York, and later one Sigi Benzl.
By 1985, the 300 SL Roadster is noted as having entered the stewardship of Liong Liem of Fairfield, Connecticut. While in Mr Liem’s care the car underwent a lengthy restoration by Precision Autoworks of New Jersey, with dozens of invoices on file detailing work carried out between 1986 and 1993, the sum of which amounts to more than $115,000. A further $50,000 was spent with Pennsylvania-based James Garttmeyer Automotive Services between 1994 and 1998. In 2013, while still owned by Mr Liem, the Mercedes-Benz underwent recommissioning at Vintage Motorsports, Inc. of Malvern, Pennsylvania, when it was noted that the car had been sitting for more than 12 years. Accompanying invoices from November 2013 to November 2014 outline work amounting to more than $35,000.
In 2016, the car was sold at auction prior to being bought by the consignor, who immediately commissioned a second no-expense-spared restoration that was carried out by AutoRiparazioni Stefano Coratelli and Kessel Classic in his native Switzerland. A staggering €700,000 was lavished on the 300 SL Roadster between 2016 and 2021 to bring the car to concours standard, including full restoration of the engine and all mechanical components, complete replacement of the electrical system to factory specification, and sourcing of all correct spare parts and materials. A further €49,000 of upholstery work carried out by Selleria Santarelli, including a full re-trim in Creme leather—one of four possible combinations for the 1959 model year—and replacement of the hardtop headlining with correct light grey material, perforated exactly as the original.
The car is accompanied by a factory hardtop, a full set of books, a Karl Baisch luggage set, a sales brochure, and toolkit, in addition to samples of the materials used in the restoration.
Finished to an impeccable standard, with full matching-numbers chassis, differential, hardtop, engine, gearbox, steering box, and suspension—not to mention a highly desirable and rare colour—this Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster sits comfortably among the best examples of its type.
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.
Car: Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (R107).
Date of registration: 13th September 1989.
Date taken: 3rd June 2018.
Location: Scolton Manor, UK.
Album: Classics @ Scolton Show 2018