Mercedes 300SL
Arguably the most famous Mercedes, apart from the F1 cars, the 1954 300SL Gullwing. was dubbed “The first supercar”.
In the annals of automotive history, few cars command as much admiration and reverence as the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. Revered for its ground-breaking design, technological innovation, and unparalleled performance in a time when the Lamborghini badge was on tractors and Ferrari was only just starting to succeed, the 300SL Gullwing stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Mercedes-Benz, especially considering their funds post WWII.
Introduced in 1954, the 300SL Gullwing was born out of the desire to create a road-going version of the highly successful W194 race car, producing 1400 coupes. Its most distinctive feature, the upward-opening gullwing doors, not only captured the imagination but also served a practical purpose, allowing for easier ingress and egress in tight spaces.
Underneath its sleek and aerodynamic bodywork lies a robust tubular spaceframe chassis, a revolutionary design for its time. Powering the 300SL Gullwing is a fuel-injected, water-cooled 3.0L inline-six engine, capable of producing an impressive 240 horsepower, easily one of the most powerful road cars of the time. This formidable powertrain propels the Gullwing to a top speed of over 160 miles per hour (263km/h), making it one of, if not the fastest production cars of its era.
However, it's not just the performance that sets the 300SL Gullwing apart; it's also the attention to detail and luxurious appointments found within its cabin. From the sumptuous leather and fabric upholstery (Lindsay Fox has the only original fabric upholstery) to the elegant dashboard layout and removable steering wheel, every aspect of the interior exudes refinement and sophistication while keeping the supercar look, elevating the driving experience to new heights.
The 300SL Gullwing's racing pedigree is further exemplified by its numerous victories on the track, including notable wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Carrera Panamericana with a 1-2 victory in 1952. These triumphs cemented its reputation as a true sports car icon, beloved by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing continues to captivate audiences with its timeless design in our collection. As a symbol of automotive excellence and innovation, it serves as a reminder of the golden age of motoring and the enduring legacy of Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess. Whether on display at prestigious museums and events such as our own or tearing up the open road, the 300SL Gullwing remains a symbol of automotive perfection, destined to inspire generations of enthusiasts for years to come.
Quick Facts
The original Mercedes Supercar
Top speed of 263kmh making it one of the fastest production cars of its era
Le Mans winner
One of only 1400 made