1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster

Fully Documented Numbers Matching Example.U.S.

Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman paved the way for a production version of the sleek and world-beating 300SL race car by challenging Mercedes to build it, and by providing an order for 1,000 units. In 1954, the 300SL road car, with its now-famous "gullwing" doors, was launched in New York City, being the first Mercedes to be introduced outside of Europe. Even with a lofty price over $7,000, Hoffman's confidence was met with 1,400 coupes built over a three-year period. In no time, the iconic marvel became the "it" car for celebrities and captains of industry, as well as off-duty race car drivers.  

Hoffman saw even greater sales possibilities for a more "user friendly," open version of the coupe, and therefore, pushed Mercedes to develop the 300SL Roadster, which replaced the coupe in 1957. From the gullwing, the 300SL Roadster retained the best attributes of the coupe: speed, handling prowess, and rock-solid build quality, along with high style. With the space frame chassis modified to provide deeper door openings for greater ease of entry and exit and the natural appeal of open cars in the American market, its success was guaranteed. While still a car for the competitive driver, it was also suited to the boulevard cruiser, as it could effortlessly toggle from racetrack to opera house.

This special example has been finished in Metallic silver exterior, with a elegant blue leather interior and complemented very nicely with a blue convertible softtop.  It is very clear why these cars have remained so collectable as the clean styling has a timeless appeal.  The Roadster has wonderful finishing touches such as the polished chrome bumper and trim pieces including sleek, aerodynamic mirrors.  Inside, beautiful leather bucket seats give a luxurious feel while sutley reminding the driver of the performance pedigree under the hood.  Nice details such as the ivory steering wheel, metal knobs and switches further accentuates the upscale interior.

The 300SL was one of the most technically advanced cars available when it was introduced. Thanks to Mercedes' manufacture of aircraft engines during World War II, they were well versed in the benefits of fuel injection, and the 300SL became the first production car to feature fuel delivery via direct injection.  The numbers matching 240 bhp, 2,996 cc OHC inline six-cylinder engine powers the roadster and is mated to a sporting four-speed manual gearbox. Superb driving dynamics result from independent front suspension with twin wishbones, coil springs and anti-roll bar. A single-pivot swing axle with compensating coil springs and hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers comprises the rear suspension.

This very original roadster was delivered new in Europe, complete with the very attractive "Euro" headlights.  The cars history as provided by the previous owner whom Legendary purchased the car from, he would the cars second owner and his tenure began in 1982 when he purchased it from the original owner in Europe.  During his ownership the car would see only minimal mileage and is showing only 25,822 km's. It was a gift to his wife and both would love the car during their ownership  but only use it sparingly. The car would always be serviced by Mercedes Benz technicians and just service items replaced on the car as needed rather than any type of major restoration.  Under close inspection a trained eye would be very pleased to see how well the car has survived through the years.  An engine bay that has not been "fluffed" but shows in its true form and an extremely well preserved undercarriage.  All the things that are so  important to the true collector.   

 The 300SL was certainly a look into the future of high performance road cars, and it raised the bar considerably for its competition. It is no wonder that 300SLs of either variety have become, and remain, one of the core blue-chip collector cars, in addition to their status as one of the all-time design and performance icons of the road. This beautifully presented and ready-to-use example is poised to bring miles of enjoyment to its fortunate new owner.