Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II)

DISC-
BRAKES

MATCHING
NUMBERS

US INITIAL
DELIVERY

PERFECT
DOCUMENTATION

OLDER PARTIAL
RESTORATION

Technical specifications

Manufacturer

Mercedes-Benz

Model

300 SL Roadster

Model series

W 198 II

Mileage

55.695 km

Period of production

1957 - 1962

Year of construction

1961

Initial registration

01.07.1962

Engine

6-cylinder in-line engine

Performance (hp)

158 kW / 215 hp

Transmission

4-speed manual transmission

engine (ccm)

2996 cm³

Fuel

Petrol

Steering

left-hand drive

Exterior

Silver (180)

Interior

Red

General inspection

New

Quantity

1.858

Restored

Historic Plate

car description

The example offered here is one of only 250 vehicles built in 1961 at the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim factory.
Originally delivered to the United States, the car was first registered there in 1962. Finished in White (paint code 050) with a red leather interior, this Roadster was initially based in San Diego before becoming part of the collection of Earl and Betti Eichhorn in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, in the late 1970s. Under its distinctive blue California registration “487 NXZ,” the car remained in their ownership until 1987. It was then exported to Europe and registered in Sweden, where it formed part of a private collection for nearly three decades. In 2014, the vehicle finally returned to Germany.

The history of this Roadster is exceptionally well documented. In addition to the original factory data card, there are numerous period photographs, invoices, and documents. An oil service sticker from 1976, together with recent paint thickness measurements, confirm that the car was refinished only once in the 1970s. Today, it presents in outstanding and highly authentic condition, featuring beautifully preserved paintwork and a wonderfully aged original leather interior with a charming, honest patina.

Recently, the Roadster underwent a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment by the Mercedes-Benz Center Legends Duda-Cars. The work included a new fuel tank and sender unit, a fully overhauled injection pump, and a major service—each step thoroughly documented by invoices. The engine bay was also meticulously cleaned using dry ice treatment.

This 300 SL Roadster, equipped with disc brakes and a cast-iron engine block, belongs to one of the most sought-after versions of the model—of which only around 270 examples were produced in this specification. Its exceptional originality, complete provenance, and remarkable state of preservation make it one of the most desirable examples in existence.

An authentic and mechanically as well as aesthetically impressive 300 SL Roadster – a rare opportunity for the discerning collector who values history, substance, and authenticity.

History of the series

The 300 SL Roadster celebrated its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1957. Just like its predecessor, the Roadster was the initiative of Max Hoffmann. As with the Gullwing, the tubular lattice frame was the load-bearing element, although it was significantly modified in the area of the doors and rear. Space was gained for a usable trunk and hinged doors for much more convenient entry.

The rear axle became a single-joint swing axle with compensating spring, resulting in improved handling characteristics and increased comfort. In March 1961, the air-cooled drum duplex brakes were replaced by modern disc brakes, and a year later a revised engine (M 198 III) with an alloy cylinder block was fitted.

Price

On request

This offer and the information contained therein are non-binding. Errors, omissions and prior sale excepted.

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