1957 Mercedes 300SL Roadster (W198)

The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster (‘300’ for size of engine (2,996cc unit; ‘SL’ for ‘Sport-Leicht’ or lightweight sports), produced from 1957 to 1963, is the convertible version of the iconic 300SL Gullwing coupe. It features a sleek design, powered by a 3.0-litre inline-six engine with innovative fuel injection technology. Fitted with the 3.89 axle ratio, this 300SL Roadster produces around 225 horsepower. With a top speed of around 140 mph and a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds, it offered impressive performance. A 3.89 axle ratio offers several advantages, including improved acceleration, enhanced low-end torque for towing or hauling, better fuel efficiency, reduced engine wear, and quieter operation during highway cruising. The 300SL Roadster is celebrated for its design, engineering, and performance, remaining highly prized among collectors with around 1,858 units built it was a real success story for Mercedes-Benz.

The open-top sibling to the 300 SL 'Gullwing', introduced several technological innovations now commonplace in the automotive industry, including fuel injection and a lightweight tubular-frame chassis. Following the end of Gullwing production, Mercedes-Benz continued to refine and advance the platform with the 300 SL Roadster, establishing a benchmark for open-topped performance cars with the addition of a highly revised rear axle over the ‘Gullwing’ incorporated low-pivot swing axles. Reshaping automotive excellence in its era, this model still captivates with its pace, refinement, and vigour almost 70 years later.

This particular example that Hilton & Moss is pleased to bring to market, was registered in July 1957 and initially dispatched to the United States. More than 80% of the SL’s total production was shipped to the United States. This 300 SL Roadster was among approximately 30 units originally finished in Strawberry Red metallic paint. By 1990, it had returned to Germany under the care of Erik Schwanke of Wachterg, who commissioned a restoration in 1993. Photographs from 1994 depict the car in Silver-Grey with a Red leather interior. Subsequently, the car changed hands multiple times, undergoing mechanical enhancements and rebuilds, including the rear axle, engine, and clutch.

The restoration aimed to rectify flaws from the previous restoration. Finished to the customer's dream specification of period-correct Anthracite Grey (DB 172) with a striking Red leather interior, the car's aesthetics were revitalised and presented beautifully. Following the restoration, the car was exhibited at Salon Privé in 2017, earning a trophy in its class.

Detailed invoices indicate a comprehensive 500-mile shakedown test by Hilton & Moss in 2016, along with servicing by specialists in 2017 and 2018. The car's most recent service, conducted by Martin Cushway Engineering in March 2020, has been followed by minimal mileage accumulation, totalling just under 250 miles. Consequently, the car remains in exceptional condition throughout.

On the road, the 300 SL Roadster delivers impeccable performance, with smooth acceleration, seamless gear changes, and a refined engine note. Its advanced road manners, even by modern standards, underscore its enduring appeal, making it a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts for long-distance touring. Moreover, the car offers not only an engaging driving experience but also comfort and practicality, boasting ample luggage space for extended trips.