Fantasy Junction

Description

1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster s/n 198.042-10-002749 engine no 198.980-10-002808 Brown with Natural Interior The 300SL was one of the most exotic cars available when it was new. Directly descended from racing cars, and chock full of innovative features, they were fast, beautiful, and expensive. Arguably the first `supercar` ever the 300SL has been described as the McLaren F1 of its day. Surrounded by separate frame carbureted contemporaries, the SL was truly a glimpse of the future and remains today a very special car. Their appeal is timeless and consequently, they have remained `blue-chip` collector cars that are always in demand and perhaps even culturally embedded as one of the greatest cars of all time. The roadster version was for many years overshadowed by the stunning gullwing; however, as more savvy enthusiasts have become privy to the advantages of the roadster, their values are now catching up to those of the coupes. Indeed, the increased practicality of proper doors with wind-up windows, improved drivability from the revised rear suspension, and inimitable open air experience make the roadster a more enjoyable car to use than the gullwing. This particular example, as an early 1961 car, features the larger drum brakes, which make the car more usable than both earlier roadsters and gullwings. This car has been in California since 1962, having been purchased in Germany by its original owner, who owned the car until 2007. It was originally white with a red interior and was changed to its current color combination during the mid 1970`s. A few parts were chromed at that point as well to brighten up the engine compartment. The car then fell into disuse for many years, which necessitated a comprehensive mechanical freshening at considerable expense, which was executed in the end of 2007. The work was completed at a cost exceeding $16,000, and the car performs wonderfully now. The work included the overhaul of the complete fuel system (injection pump, fuel pump, gas tank, hoses, injectors), brake system work (brake lines, master cylinder, booster, fabrication of components), new tires, motor and transmission mounts, valve adjustment, set timing, as well as various smaller components such as the pedal box and clutch pivots, and the replacement of axle boots and various hardware. As a result, the car drives and performs wonderfully and is, of course, a matching numbers example. Cosmetically, the car has patina but is fundamentally solid. The panels are straight and free of corrosion, though the door fit is not perfect. The other panels fit well. The paint displays crazing, fading, and a few scratches and dings, but no major dents to detract from the overall straightness of the body. The chrome is lightly pitted and worn, while the glass is very good, though the rear window of the top has perished. The top itself is present, intact, and well-preserved, and the top frame is in excellent condition. The various trim components are accounted for, though one of the front turn signal lenses has a crack. The interior has some patina but is in good overall condition. The upholstery and carpets are very nice, though not of the correct material. The seats and dashboard are both upholstered with leather. The dashboard is complete and well-preserved, with all instruments and switches present. The frequently worn aluminum key surround panel is almost unmarked in this example. The engine compartment has been brightened up with the fitment of chromed airbox and radiator catch tank, but is otherwise original in feel. It has patina consistent with the rest of the car, as does the trunk, which contains the tool roll (whose contents have been selectively chromed as well) and an unbelievably complete set of books. The underside is solid, with the all-important structural members being free from corrosion. There is evidence of careless jacking in selected areas, but even they remain solid. The car runs and performs wonderfully, with excellent performance from the drivetrain, chassis, and brakes. It has a sorted and very strong feel that is difficult to find, even among restored examples. This is a very rare opportunity to acquire what is, in essence, a one-owner car with matching numbers. It has a very original feel that cannot be duplicated, yet has been mechanically sorted so that is ready to use. As such, the car would make an excellent event car to confidently enjoy as is, or the cosmetics could be selectively or comprehensively renewed to make this car a real stunner. The car comes with tool roll, jack, and book set including service booklet, service reference books for both Europe and the Americas (to inform you where to have your SL serviced when you are in Curao), two copies of the owner`s manual (one spiral bound, the other conventionally), parts catalog, workshop manual, and color sales brochure.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608

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