Offered from The Tom Scott Collection
1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster

• One of 1,858 Roadsters built
• Desirable disc-braked example
• Present ownership since 2004
• Equipped from new with Nardi steering wheel
• Extensively restored during the present ownership
• Recently recommissioned by Jim Stokes Workshops

Mercedes-Benz introduced a convertible version of their celebrated 300 SL 'Gullwing' at the Geneva Motor Show in 1957 and was above all a more refined car than its winged predecessor. It was an immediate hit with the 1950s 'Jet Set' of royalty, actors, and socialites and its premiere essentially announced the increasing emphasis the company would place upon luxury cars over the ensuing decades. There was no denying the 300 SL's mechanical performance, which had decidedly improved upon in the Roadster; the updated six-cylinder engine received the competition camshaft used in the NSL racing coupes that alone produced an additional 20 horsepower.

Handling also benefited from a revised rear suspension with a lower axle pivot-point, minimizing the tendency for oversteer. Despite the added weight of chassis reinforcement required by an open model, the roadster was every bit the performance car that the Gullwing had proven itself to be. The roadster's overwhelmingly luxurious character generally obscured its performance capabilities, although Road & Track were full of praise, commenting on the neutral steering characteristics, a 0-60mph time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of over 130mph that made the 300 SL Roadster one of the fastest convertibles of its time.

The new 300 SL Roadster was an improvement on the Gullwing in nearly every capacity, at least from a road-going perspective, and it has since evolved into one of Stuttgart's most collectable models, equally at home on concours lawns or multi-day rallies and tours.
A testament to how highly regarded they are today is how coveted they were in period. One such example being how well it sold bearing in mind the 300 SL cost more than a Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder. Roadster production ceased in 1963 after 1,858 cars had been built, some 70% being exported to the USA.

It is understood that the beautiful Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster we offer from the Scott Collection was delivered new to an Army General in Japan where it formed part of an extensive private collection. A late disc-braked model, the car was delivered equipped with chrome 'sport wheels', Becker Mexico radio, and a Nardi steering wheel, the latter engraved with the chassis number. In addition, the car was fitted with a taller rear axle ratio (1:3.42) and corresponding 180mph speedometer, replacing the stock 160mph instrument. All of the aforementioned features are retained.

The Mercedes remained in Japan until builder and real estate developer Norman Wolgin imported it into the USA in the early 1980s. In August 2004, the third owner, who had bought the Mercedes from Mr Wolgin, offered it for sale at the Christie's Monterey Jet Centre auction sale in the US where it was purchased by Tom Scott Snr. At that time it was reported that the car had covered only 36,000 miles from new, and that it had been well cared for and still retained its original paint and interior. The odometer reading today is circa 36,300.

Kept on static display as part of the vendor's private collection of fine Mercedes-Benz motor cars, the Roadster underwent a comprehensive body restoration and bare-metal repaint in 2012, undertaken by Bel Royal Motors in Jersey, Channel Islands at a cost of £18,844 (bills on file). Some four years later, in January 2016, O'Keeffe Coach Trimming refurbished the interior, hood and luggage at a cost of £17,000 (invoice available).

The Mercedes has recently been recommissioned by Jim Stokes Workshops and comes with their detailed report and invoice for £14,522. Works undertaken included changing fluids and fitting new spark plugs, battery, tyres, rear wheel bearings, suspension bump stops, and fuel supply hoses. JSW's report states: "The vehicle drove very well indeed, the clutch, gearbox, suspension and brakes are all operating correctly". JSW were pleased that the car was brought into operational condition with little difficulty, while listing further works that may be required to meet full and frequent road use. JSW would be pleased to advise the successful purchaser on such matters.

The car comes with a history file containing sundry bills; a copy of the 2004 auction catalogue description and sales invoice; copy State of Missouri Certificate of Title; customs paperwork; DVLA correspondence; an original V5C Registration Certificate and much more besides.

A beautiful example of the iconic 300 SL Roadster, 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.

Please note there is restricted bidding on this lot which requires enhanced bid verification checks. Please contact us at [email protected] or call +44 20 7447 7447 as soon as possible if you are planning to bid on this lot to prevent any last-minute delays.