No collector automobile expertise matches the status of driving the enduring Mercedes 300 SL. This car has been successful for generations, and for an excellent purpose: it’s a real masterpiece that shines even among the many hottest basic vehicles. The gullwing model, particularly, receives a number of reward for its distinctive design and spectacular efficiency. Hold studying to study what units this magnificence aside — and why it stays one of the coveted collector vehicles to today.

The Iconic Gullwing Doorways

Nothing units the Mercedes 300 SL aside fairly like its trademark gullwing doorways. Hinged on the roof, these doorways make sure that getting into and exiting the automobile is a memorable expertise. Curiously, nonetheless, the gullwing doorways had been initially one thing of an afterthought. The 300 SL’s race-inspired tubular physique left little room for standard doorways, so the designers needed to get artistic. Their resolution? Bringing the doorways to the roofline in a gullwing model finally grew to become the coupe’s most memorable characteristic.

Technically, there have been different appearances of the gullwing design. Earlier than the 300 SL, the 1945 Jamin-Bouffort JB made its mark not solely with gullwing doorways but additionally by its easy standing as a three-wheeler.

There have been additionally preliminary plans so as to add these doorways to the Bugatti Sort 64, however that by no means truly got here to fruition — the automobile is now known as “incomplete perfection.”

After these temporary flirtations with the gullwing design, Mercedes introduced the idea to the lots with the 300 SL. A number of different fashions tried to make their very own model of the gullwing, however none fairly captured the general public fascination the way in which the Mercedes model did. Even now, there’s one thing particular about bringing these doorways to their full top, giving them the distinct winglike look for which they’re named.

Spectacular Efficiency

Sure, the gullwing doorways are spectacular, however that’s definitely not the one purpose why the 1957 Mercedes 300 SL stands the check of time. The coupe can also be a delight to drive, offering loads of substance to accompany its trademark model.

Forward of its time, the Mercedes 300 SL was a real efficiency marvel when it was first launched. This largely stems from its origins: the automobile was not initially supposed as a mass-produced car. Somewhat, it offered a barely toned-down tackle the Grand Prix idea for performance-minded drivers.

Due to an ultra-lightweight body that’s solely about 180 kilos, the coupe model of the 300 SL can attain a prime pace of near 160 MPH. For a time, it was the world’s quickest manufacturing automobile. With an ordinary 215 horsepower straight-six engine, there’s no energy scarcity beneath the hood. In case you like the concept of proudly owning a stand-out collector automobile however don’t need to miss out on efficiency or comfort, the 300 SL coupe is the way in which to go.

A Pleasant Inside

Though it’s a bit too small to offer a very comfy journey for tall drivers, the seating for the 300 SL coupe is extra spacious than you may count on. After the novelty of the gullwing doorways has handed, getting in can really feel like a little bit of a chore — though a uniquely designed steering wheel helps compensate. The sculpted inside is as breathtaking as the skin of the automobile, with aluminum trim giving the dashboard a visible increase. The comfy seats present loads of assist. Each the material and leather-based choices are the peak of basic automobile model.

Coupe or Roadster?

The 1957 version of the Mercedes 300 SL is exclusive in that it’s obtainable in two codecs: a coupe or a roadster. As gross sales on the unique model started to fall in 1956, a genius thought was hatched: remodel the automobile into a trendy roadster. This mannequin lacked the gullwing doorways that set the coupe aside, however there was nonetheless lots to like. In case you’re primarily drawn to the 300 SL due to its ground-breaking model, nonetheless, the coupe is unquestionably the way in which to go.

Shield Your Treasured Collector Automobile

Whether or not you’re obsessive about the 1957 Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing or have your eyes on one other iconic car, you’ll need to do no matter it takes to maintain your journey in prime situation. Attain out at the moment to study how one can get high-level safety to your collector automobile.