Mercedes 300SL Gullwing
The engineering tour de force that remains one of the most desirable cars ever built.
Developed from Mercedes-Benz's W194 racing car, the 300SL introduced direct fuel injection to a production car for the first time. Its distinctive upward-opening "gullwing" doors were a necessity of its tubular space-frame chassis rather than a styling flourish — and became instantly iconic regardless.
History
The Gullwing coupe (1954–1957) used mechanical fuel injection to extract genuinely high performance from its 3.0-liter inline-six, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world at the time.
The Roadster (1957–1963) replaced the gullwing doors with conventional doors and revised the chassis for improved usability, becoming the more practical version and ultimately outselling the coupe.
Notable Versions
Alloy Gullwing
Approximately 29 built with aluminum body panels instead of steel. Exceptionally rare and among the most valuable cars in the world.
Roadster with factory hardtop
Offered a removable steel hardtop, adding both versatility and value.
Rudge wheel option
Center-lock wire wheels, a desirable period option.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Authenticity verification is essential given the model's extreme value
Confirm chassis and engine numbers against Mercedes-Benz factory records, available through Mercedes-Benz Classic.
Restoration quality varies enormously
A poor restoration can cost more to correct than starting from an honest, original car.
Check fuel injection system service history
A complex system where correct parts are difficult and expensive to source.
This is a car that demands a marque specialist inspection
Given the stakes involved, a general pre-purchase inspection is not sufficient.
Quick Specs
- Engine
- 3.0L SOHC I6, mechanical fuel injection
- Horsepower
- 215 hp
- Wheelbase
- 94.5 in
- Weight
- approx. 2,850 lbs
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
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