1957 MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SL ROADSTER - Estimate $1,000,000 - $1,300,000| Without Reserve - Auction date April 26
Chassis 198.042.7500473
Engine 198.980.7500513
Among the Most Desirable, Versatile, and Eligible of All Postwar Sports Cars
Retains Matching-Numbers Engine per Factory Build Record
A Cherished Part of the Mullin Collection for Nearly Three Decades
Built from 1954 through early 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing and Roadster stand, after more than six decades, as the first production cars worthy of the now-ubiquitous term “supercar.” Clearly derived from the highly successful W194 series of race cars created by racing team manager Alfred Neubauer and chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, their release to the public was a calculated stroke of genius. As Mercedes-Benz sought to establish a greater presence in the all-important American market, the 300 SL, with its lofty price, limited availability, exotic looks, and headline-worthy performance, was an unbridled success.
A prototype of the Roadster was spotted during testing by a reporter from Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport magazine in 1956, and production began in 1957 as the last few of the 1,400 Gullwings were being constructed. Featuring a revised rear suspension yielding more predictable handling, the 300 SL Roadster was produced through 1963 with 1,858 built. In more recent years, the 300 SL Roadster has emerged as one of the most capable and enjoyable cars for long-distance touring.
This 300 SL was purchased by Peter Mullin in the mid-1990s, and he drove it frequently around Southern California, and particularly enjoyed the drive to his museum in Oxnard, California, while it was first being constructed. More recently, the Mercedes-Benz was driven by Peter and his wife, Merle, on numerous multi-day tours and rallies around the world. Originally finished in the pleasing shade of Light Blue (DB 334) with blue leather (code 333), it was refinished in German Racing Silver prior to its addition to the Mullin Collection, and its green leather interior and canvas top provide an excellent complement to the traditional paint shade. Reportedly maintained by German Motor Car Services of Santa Monica for many years, this 300 SL has been a cherished part of the collection, providing thousands of memorable miles on tour and proving itself as the ideal event car.
*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1960 and as 300SL7500473.
*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.
Gooding & Company holds the unique honor and privilege of presenting Selections From The Mullin Collection Auction in-person at the Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard, California. Respected visionary Peter Mullin was deeply revered in the collector car world, not only for his world-renowned collection consisting of the finest and most exquisite French and European automobiles, but also for his enduring legacy as a philanthropist and distinguished businessman. Mr. Mullin’s appreciation, enthusiasm and knowledge of prewar French and Art Deco cars were simply unprecedented in the industry and beyond.
This auction offers a selection of lots without reserve, providing a brilliant selection of automotive history for every level of collector. Gooding & Company will house all available lots at the Mullin Automotive Museum, providing interested bidders the unique opportunity to conduct on-site inspections of the online offerings and interact with our marque expert specialists. The auction house invites you to speak with a Gooding & Company staff member for more information on viewing and inspection, as well as on how to consign for upcoming sales.
