1956 | Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Papillon"

For sale is a 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing,” a masterpiece of automotive history that impresses not only with its iconic gullwing doors but also with its exceptional condition.

The vehicle features the highly sought-after matching numbers across all major components, including engine, transmission, and both front and rear axles—a rarity even among collector cars of this caliber.

Originally delivered on January 16, 1957, this 300 SL came in the color combination of Black (DB 040) with a natural leather interior. Over the decades, the car was stylishly repainted in Silver (DB 180), a shade that lends the vehicle a sense of classic elegance and timeless appeal. The interior has also been expertly reupholstered in red leather, creating a striking contrast to the silver exterior.

Between 2014 and 2015, both the engine and transmission underwent a comprehensive overhaul, a restoration meticulously documented through extensive photographic material and invoices. These efforts reflect the unwavering commitment to authenticity and technical care that has always been afforded to this vehicle.

With an impressive, internationally documented ownership history beginning in the USA and continuing through Switzerland, England, Monaco, and most recently France, this 300 SL presents itself as an authentic, well-preserved collector’s item of significant rarity.

History of the Series
The 300 SL, belonging to the W 198 series, goes back to the Mercedes-Benz W194 race car. In 1951, Daimler-Benz decided to participate in races and to build a sports car for this purpose. In 1952, the W 194 took part in the most important races of the year. The new SL started at the Mille Miglia in early May and finished second. Only a few Month the Gullwing managed to make the first places at the famous Le Mans 24-hour race.

Originally, an of official series production of the 300 SL was not planned. The idea of a toned-down Grand Prix car, tailored to wealthy performance enthusiasts in the booming post-war American market, was proposed by U.S. Mercedes importer Max Hoffman in 1953 during a Daimler-Benz directors' meeting in Stuttgart. Mercedes' new general manager, Fritz Koenecke agreed, after Hoffmann officially ordered 1,000 cars. In addition, production of a smaller roadster, the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, was announced after Hoffman placed another order for 1,000 of the 190 SLs.

The two sports cars made their debut at the International Motor Sports Show in New York, which was held in February 1954. Mercedes-Benz experienced a very positive visitor response at the Motor Show, and series production of the 300 SL Coupé finally began in August 1954 at the Sindelfingen plant.

The engine for the 300 SL was based on the M186 from the 300 "Adenauer" saloon (W 186). In order to deliver race-ready performance, dry sump lubrication and mechanical gasoline direct injection by Bosch were among the features to be installed. A first in automotive engineering. The so-called M198 engine produces 215 hp at 5,800 rpm and 275 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm. To allow the large intake manifold to fit under the flat hood, the engine was tilted 50 degrees to the left. The tubular lattice frame of the 300 SL, developed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, weighed a slim 82 kg and ensured a high level of stability. However, this was the reason why normal doors could not be used and the designers had to switch to the gullwing doors that are now world famous.

The sports car of the century immediately draws you in and continues to thrill young and old - a legend that will continue to excite for at least the next century.
The vehicle is located in our showroom in Stuttgart-Plieningen, close to the airport/trade fair. A test drive and an inspection on the car lift are possible by arrangement.

The sale takes place on request with new inspection, service and TÜV. We also offer a wide range of accessories for your new dream car. If required, we can also deliver the vehicle to you in a closed trailer.

Opening hours: Mon - Sat by appointment

Carola Daimler Cars is a company owned by the great-granddaughter of inventor and visionary Gottlieb Daimler. We collect, trade and broker classic cars, youngtimers and collectibles with potential and history. We place particular emphasis on quality, history and preserved charm.

Subject to prior sale and errors for this offer excepted. The vehicle description on the Internet serves only for the general identification of the vehicle and does not represent a warranty in the sense of sales law. Only the agreements in the purchase contract are decisive.

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