This two-owner Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster has been a California car since leaving the factory in 1960 and retains its original color combination of white-grey over red leather. Outfitted with a nice selection of options including a factory hardtop, the SL is listed for sale here on eBay by a dealer in southern California, with a starting bid of $689,000.
It’s hard not to love 300SLs. Fast, comfortable, and fantastically attractive, they’ve been the darling of F1 aces and glitterati alike since their introduction in 1954. Even more impressive, they continue to enjoy unparalleled recognition by those in the know and otherwise. SLs are all but guaranteed entrance into the best—and most discriminating—rallies and tours, and the factory continues to support the model with both parts and service from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center. Not surprising, then, that both the Gullwing and Roadster earn far higher prices than their large production numbers of 3000+ would suggest.
With its accompanying file of paperwork, this 300SL Roadster proves itself a well-maintained original. Other than the exception of two color changes—to green and then back to the original white-gray—and a rebuild of the SOHC 3-liter inline six 12,000 miles ago, the Roadster remains in original condition. The four-speed transmission is reported to shift nicely, the preferred 3.64:1-equipped rear axle remains silent and smooth, and the red leather displays a fine patina.
The result of this careful maintenance is a 300SL with a remarkably cohesive appearance. As the bare-metal repaint took place in 1983, the exterior has aged enough to appear in keeping with the light patina present elsewhere on the car. And herein lies this SLs best selling point.
Driven in a rally or tour, the SL will allow its owner the kind of worry-free driving not afforded by a car with a concours restoration. Entered into a show, it will impress with its uniform patina and suggest that this is an SL kept by someone who does much more than look at it; a point any future owner will no doubt enjoy proving true.
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