MERCEDES-BENZ W198 300 SL

The Mercedes-Benz W198 300SL

The Mercedes-Benz 300SL writes a success story in 1954. The gullwing coupe, known as the 300SL "Gullwing," captivates sports car enthusiasts with its unconventional design and extraordinary performance. The origins of its development lie in the USA, where the US importer Maximilian Hoffman convinced the Daimler-Benz board: "We need a fantastic sports car from Mercedes-Benz here." In September 1953, the idea of a production version of the successful 300SL racing car is born. Astonishingly, only five months later, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL (W 198) makes a sensational debut in February 1954 at the International Motor Sports Show in New York. This new sports car is not only beautiful but also innovative. As the world's first production car with a four-stroke engine, it is equipped with performance and efficiency-enhancing fuel injection. The engine power of 215 hp (158 kW) allows, depending on the gear ratio, a top speed of up to 250 km/h. Thus, the 300 SL was the fastest production car of its time. The consistent lightweight construction, successful with the legendary racing car of the 1952 season, is applied again. A newly developed tubular frame, weighing only 50 kilograms, combines lightweight with maximum structural rigidity. The only drawback: Due to the large height in the entry area, this frame construction cannot be combined with conventional doors. The solution from Mercedes-Benz engineers is upward-opening gullwing doors. Over time, the gullwing doors become the unmistakable feature of the 300 SL, giving it the popular nicknames "Gullwing" and "Winged Door." This innovative design, combined with outstanding performance, solidifies the 300 SL as a timeless symbol of automotive luxury and style. To this day, the 300 SL is considered an absolute dream car and continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide. The appreciation for the 300 SL reaches its peak in December 1999 when a jury of automotive journalists selects it as the "Sports Car of the Century." This prestigious award not only emphasizes the historical significance of the 300 SL but also acknowledges its lasting relevance and timeless elegance over the course of an entire century. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL remains not only a fascinating chapter in the history of the automotive industry but also a symbol of the enduring connection between technology and aesthetics.

According to the data card, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL offered here was completed at the factory on 31 May 1955 and transported by rail to the port of loading in Hamburg on the same day. The car travelled by ship to Mercedes-Benz Distribution in New York / USA. From here, the car travelled on to California, more precisely to Los Angeles, where it was delivered to its first owner in what is probably the most classic colour combination for the 300 SL in DB 180 silver-grey metallic and red leather. At the beginning of 1976, the car changed hands in New York State. The new owner was Mr Walter Rudisch, who registered it on 17 May 1976 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The 300 SL remained in Mr Rudisch's possession until 1990, and numerous insurance documents provide detailed information on this. It was not until December 1990 that the new owner, Mercedes collector Mr Vogelsang from Germany, was registered as the new owner of the 300 SL. The export and shipment of the 300 SL, which was still largely very original but nevertheless showing its age, took place on 28 January 1991. The car arrived in Germany on 18 March and was immediately presented to customs. Just one day later, Mr Vogelsang received a comprehensive restoration offer of DM 180,000 for his vehicle, which he accepted without further delay. In the following months, the 300 SL was restored true to the original and in accordance with delivery specifications. The company carrying out the work is "Cabrio Partner" from Oerlinghausen. Mr Vogelsang enjoyed his vehicle for over 23 years and only parted with it in 2014 when he sold it to the Rosier Mercedes Benz dealership in Oldenburg. Here, the car underwent a major service before a new owner was found just a few months later. This owner also remained attached to the 300 SL for a long time. For more than 10 years, the car was only driven at special events and was continuously and professionally serviced by Mechatronik, among others. An extensive service history is available. The overall condition of this vehicle, documented by several expert reports, including the last one from 2016 with a condition rating of 1, as well as the extensive and traceable history, give this Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing a comprehensive and authentic aura. A timeless symbol of automotive history whose story comes to life with every drive.

Our sales staff will be happy to answer any detailed questions you may have. Please note that vehicle viewings are only possible by prior appointment.