1957 | Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, produced from 1957 to 1963, is a legendary sports car renowned for its performance, design, and innovation. Originally derived from the 1952 W194 racing car, the 300 SL features a mechanical direct fuel injection system that greatly enhanced the power of its three-liter straight-six engine. This allowed the car to reach impressive speeds of up to 263 km/h (163 mph), making it the fastest production car of its era. Introduced to the American market by importer, Max Hoffman, the 300 SL gained iconic status with its sleek design and groundbreaking technology, including its lightweight tubular-frame construction. The Roadster variant, which debuted at the Geneva Salon in May 1957, offered conventional doors and an updated suspension system for improved handling and comfort.

Exterior: The 1957 Mercedes W198 300SL Roadster is a truly striking car, making it easy to understand why it appealed to so many superstars in the fifties. The deep red leather on this car makes a beautiful contrast to the silver outside. The paintwork is in good condition with minimal signs of use. It is fitted with correct Michelin XWX tires on the original set of perfect wheels and hubcaps. All the chrome details were rechromed or replaced during the car's restoration. The suspension on the 300SL is now in perfect balance, both front and rear. In case of rain while driving, there is a black cloth soft top in excellent condition. One Talbot mirror is fitted on the left fender, just as it should be. This Mercedes W198 300SL is a car that can and should be used.

According to factory records, this 300SL Roadster was originally sold in the United States. In 1989, the car was exported to Germany, where its owner conducted a full restoration, returning it to its original specifications: silver with red leather interior. During this restoration, the car was also fitted with a highly desirable post-1962 aluminum block 300SL engine. This engine was reportedly rebuilt in 1991 at a cost of 90,000 DM.

After the restoration, the car was offered for sale at the Brooks auction during the Oldtimer Grand Prix at Nürburgring, Germany, on August 7, 1999. According to Brooks' description, the car had only traveled 400 kilometers since the restoration and engine rebuild. A full condition report at the auction confirmed the car's excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition.

The car was sold at this auction to an avid collector and famous movie director in the UK, Mr. David Tringham. Mr. Tringham took exceptional care of the car, and most of its documentation comes from his time of ownership. He had the car maintained by Chris Shenton, preserving every service bill and email correspondence there between. This provides remarkable insight into the car's maintenance during its most active period. The invoices include, among other things, a transmission rebuild in 2001 and a full engine rebuild with a factory new head in 2011 by Kienle in Germany. The engine rebuild cost exceeded 70,000 euros at the time.

At the time of purchase, Mr. Tringham also obtained a FIVA passport for the car, making it eligible for the finest tours and driving events. He enjoyed the car for 18 years, participating in many tours and concours events, and acquiring several trophies. The car was then sold to Denmark to Mr Patrik Vogel in 2017. He owned the car for a couple of years before selling it to its present owner in 2019. The registration process for the car in Sweden was completed in 2021, and it has been used very little by its current owner. Now the W198 300SL is for sale and ready for new adventures.