1959 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster

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2,996cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
225bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Factory-original color of Weissgrau (DB 158) with a stunning red leather interior
*Chassis, engine, and body numbers correspond to club records
*Presented with Rudge-style wheels, tools, and fitted luggage
*Successfully completed the Copperstate 1000 and Colorado Grand events
*Renowned as one of the finest sports cars of its time

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 300SL

It's impossible to talk about the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster without first referring to the car that spawned it – the legendary 300SL 'Gullwing' coupe. Originally conceived as a racing car, the 300SL racked up victories throughout 1952, in the process capturing the imagination of America's official Mercedes-Benz importer Maximilian 'Maxi' Hoffman.

Desperate for a car to sate the desires of his upmarket clients, he eventually persuaded the Daimler-Benz board to take the 300SL from racetrack to road. The designers and engineers refused to compromise on the purity of the original, so the bodywork was still primarily crafted to reduce drag as much as possible (although rumor has it that the elegant strips over the wheel arches were no more than fashionable cosmetic touches to make the car appeal to its American audience), and the steel panels cloaked a tubular chassis frame designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut which weighed only 82kg.

The iconic doors of the coupe were a byproduct of this chassis, which had much higher sides than usual, leaving limited vertical space for a conventional door. Production began at the Sindelfingen plant in August 1954 and over the next two and half years it proved a phenomenal success. 1,402 were sold, despite the colossal $11,000 asking price.

By 1957, however, SL (the initials stood for Sport Leicht; Sport Light) sales were on the slide, and with the roadster body style proving popular in America – and feedback from customers suggesting they'd like more comfort and a larger trunk – Maxi Hoffman helped convince Mercedes-Benz that a convertible version could take over where the coupe left off.

Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in May that year, the 300SL Roadster wasn't the result of a quick fix to meet owner demands. Mercedes re-engineered the whole car, taking the opportunity to fix some niggles that afflicted the 300SL—first and foremost the suspension. Although the double wishbone front layout was famed for its precision, the rear swing arm axle, jointed at the differential, had developed a reputation for tricky handling and sensitivity to cambers. Lowering the pivot point helped calm the 300SL's predilection for oversteer.

At the same time the fabulous 3.0-liter straight six, which featured fuel injection years ahead of its time, was boosted from 215bhp to 225bhp (torque output remained at 202lb-ft at 4,600rpm) and the chassis was redesigned with lower sills to accommodate normal swing-opening doors – although additional strengthening was required in the lower half of the chassis which saw the SL's weight grow from 1,310kg to 1,420kg.

Partially to increase load space and partially to create room for the folding fabric roof, the fuel tank capacity was reduced from 130 liters to 100 liters, but arguably the biggest benefit the Roadster gained over the Gullwing was superior ventilation. Due at least in part to the coupe's small in/out side windows, the hard top 300SL was regarded by many as tough work on long trips due to heat buildup in the cabin. Even with its roof up the Roadster's wind-up windows allowed much better airflow through the cockpit.

By no means the poor relation to the Gullwing, the later refinements added to the Roadster made it a compelling proposition for collectors and enthusiasts despite a list price of $10,950. And while the coupe had a model-run of under three years, the Roadster stayed in production until early 1963, by which time 1,858 had been built.

THE CAR OFFERED

This 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is an iconic and breathtaking example of automotive excellence. Purchased in 2015 for a private collection, it has been meticulously cared for and maintained including undergoing extensive service work at Hjeltness Restoration in San Diego, California, with an investment of nearly $50,000. The result is a vehicle that is not only visually stunning but also mechanically sound, ready to provide its next owner with an unforgettable driving experience.

The Weissgrau color of this 300SL Roadster is a rare and captivating choice. It beautifully showcases the car's classic lines and adds an element of exclusivity to its appearance. Finished at the factory in Weissgrau (DB 158), the attention to detail in preserving the car's original specification is evident, from the chassis and engine numbers that correspond to club records, to the carefully selected Rudge-style wheels that enhance its overall aesthetic.

In addition to its remarkable appearance, this Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster boasts a performance that matches its stunning looks. Known for its power and agility, the 300SL Roadster is considered one of the finest sports cars of its time. Its robust chassis and powerful engine deliver an exhilarating driving experience that is unparalleled. Whether cruising along scenic roads or participating in rally events, this car handles with precision and offers a true pleasure behind the wheel.

Speaking of rally events, this 1959 300SL Roadster has participated in a few, including the prestigious Copperstate 1000 and the renowned Colorado Grand. Its endurance and reliability make it a sought-after choice for such events, as it can effortlessly tackle challenging routes and showcase its exceptional performance capabilities.

This Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is presented with a variety of accompanying features that add to its desirability. Included are Rudge-style wheels, a coveted accessory that complements the car's classic appearance and enhances its overall charm. The presence of tools and fitted luggage enhances the car's practicality, ensuring that its next owner can embark on journeys with style and convenience.

With extensive service work performed and its participation in notable rally events, this car is a testament to its outstanding quality and performance. Whether displayed in a private collection or driven on open roads, this 300SL Roadster is ready to be enjoyed by those who appreciate the timeless beauty and unparalleled driving experience it offers.