Bonhams is giving one fortunate car collector the chance to start the new year bidding on one of the most iconic sports cars ever – a pristine 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe meticulously maintained since it left the factory nearly 70 years ago.
The Gullwing, chassis 5500733, left the factory in September 1955 wearing a white exterior over a red leather interior and was shipped to its first owner in New York. In 1978, the 300SL exchanged hands with a second owner, an avid car collector. According to Bonhams, this is the first time the car has been offered publicly in nearly 50 years, a sign that the second owner truly loved his Gullwing, further supported by its impeccable condition.
The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe weathered the passage of time seemingly unscathed. Its vibrant red interior still possesses the ivory-colored steering wheel and shift knob with a Blaupunkt AM radio and tasteful Ulster Tartan plaid seat inserts. Meanwhile, its color-keyed wheels gleam with polished rims wrapped in Michelin radial tires.
Its detailed service record shows that the car’s fuel-injected inline-six underwent a complete rebuild in 2006-2007 by Steve Max of Marx Mercedes Service. The car’s gearbox, brakes, and bushings were also rebuilt during this time, essentially giving the 300SL another 50 years of happy motoring. The chance to bid on this fabulous 300 SL Gullwing will be on January 25, 2024, at The Scottsdale Auction hosted by Bonhams at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa.
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