Roadster ruin: feast your eyes on this rare 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster for sale

Updated: 18 April 2024

► Stunning 1957 Merc 300SL for sale
► Fully restored after 3500 hours’ work
► For sale with Hilton & Moss specialist

Here’s a beautiful example of one of the world’s most famous cars that could be yours: this sublime 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster has come to the market for the first time in a decade.

If you’re wondering why the photos look so stunning, there are two reasons: 1) They’re taken by ace CAR contributing photographer Sam Chick, and 2) They capture a car freshly unboxed after a painstaking 3500-hour restoration by the craftsfolk at Hilton & Moss.

The Bishop Stortford-based company specialises in working with old Mercs and they certainly look to have done a painstaking job on this US car.

General manager William Garrett said: ‘This is quite possibly one of the finest 300SL Roadsters available. Having previously restored it from the ground up, transforming an unloved example into a gleaming automotive jewel, we’re all very proud of the results.

300SL: one of the most evocative badges in motoring

‘It’s a very special motor car, and one we’re excited to be showing to the public at Salon Privé in London.’

Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster: living the dream

This is one of the earliest SLs dating from its launch year in 1957; it was produced until 1963, alongside its famous Gullwing coupe sibling.

The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster took 3500 hours of restoration

Its 3.0-litre straight six produced 225bhp, giving the Roadster a top speed of 140mph and 0-60mph in 7.5sec.

This particular car finished in period-correct anthracite grey over scarlet hide started life in the US, before being exported back to Germany and ending up in Britain. It has been in private ownership for the past decade.

The price? No word yet, only a polite ‘price on application’ (POA) message… Catch it at Salon Privé running from 18-20 April 2024.

By Tim Pollard

Group digital editorial director, car news magnet, crafter of words

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