Iconic retro Mercedes, one of only two ever made, goes up for sale – and it can be yours for just £1.3 million
AN ICONIC retro Mercedes which is one of just two ever made could be yours for £1.3 million.
The 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster had been earmarked for use by the company’s exhibition department until 1963.
One of just two recorded Fantasy Yellow Roadsters used by the German automaker, the sleek motor underwent an “excellent and well-preserved” complete restoration in 2015.
Now, the beautiful convertible, finished with a black leather interior, is up for auction.
The iconic car retains its numbers-matching body, chassis, 3.0L engine, and gearbox, and has an intriguing history.
It was among the last “big-drum brake” Roadsters produced, and was later upgraded with colour-matching Rudge wheels.
This special 300 SL Roadster was also fitted with unique features for its exhibition role, including a 3.64 rear axle and English instrumentation.
Pictures show the classic finish inside the convertible, with its large dials and long gear stick.
The beautiful motor is set to go on auction with RM Sotheby’s on 28 February in Miami, Florida.
Its listing reads: “Over the years, this Roadster passed through a series of owners, including David Jackson and Dr. R.L. Dunworth, before being sold to Jack Hahn, who kept it for nearly 40 years.
“In 2013, it was acquired by Jim Gusweiler and eventually restored by Legendary Classic Center in Costa Mesa, California.
“The restoration, which included refinishing the car in its original Fantasy Yellow, rebuilding the engine, and fitting a new wiring harness, was completed to the highest standard.”
The listing continues: “Accompanied by the factory data card, a matching luggage set, tools, manuals, and hundreds of restoration images, this exceptional 300 SL Roadster is a true collector’s gem and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for car enthusiasts.”
The motor will go on sale as part of Sotheby’s late February auction in the US.
Described as “the ultimate luxury event on America’s East Coast”, the two-day auction from 27-28 February will feature a range of “ultimate blue-chip collectables”.
Another ultra-rare classic motor is also set to make its appearance at the sale.
The powerful and spectacular 1966 Ferrari 330 GTS convertible with an enormous V12 engine is set to sell for around £1.4 million.
An open version of the popular 330 GTC coupe, the classic motor is one of just 100 examples ever produced.
The sleek coupe, finished in Rosso Corsa, comes with with Borrani wire wheels and a luxury Nero Franzi leather-trimmed interior.
Inside, there is a wood panel dashboard as well as a wooden steering wheel adorned with the famous prancing horse logo in its centre.
Powering the motor is a 4.0L V-12 engine that produces an estimated 300bhp at 7,000rpm.
The Ferrari can go from 0-60mph in just 6.0 seconds and can reach a top speed of up to 150mph.