Fantasy Junction

Description

1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster
s/n 198.042.10.0002960 engine no. 198.980.10.0003024
Black with Black 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 (others claim that honor should be bestowed upon the Lamborghini Miura), the 300SL has been described as the McLaren F1 of its day. Thanks to Mercedes’ development work during World War II in aircraft engines, the 300SL became the first production car to feature fuel injection (directly injected into the cylinders no less), and the light but strong spaceframe necessitated the now legendary and often copied upwards opening doors on the closed variant of the car. The result was a stunningly beautiful but also functional car that was, depending on gearing, the fastest production car in the world. Surrounded by separate frame carbureted contemporaries, the SL was truly a glimpse of the future and remains today a very special car indeed. Its appeal is timeless and consequently, 300SL`s have remained `blue-chip` collector cars that are always in demand and perhaps even culturally embedded as one of the most iconic and 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 have now caught 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. Later roadsters also incorporate meaningful mechanical updates, of which one of the most desirable is the fitment of disc brakes starting in March of 1961.

This particular car is a matching numbers iron block high compression disc brake example from the collection of a fastidious enthusiast. It was the subject of a 3000 hour show quality restoration by Andrew Bach, completed in 1995 at a cost of $350,000. It recently received a $25,000 show quality repaint to correct some surface cracks, which was completed in May of 2009. It has both hard and soft tops, and rare factory options of 6-inch wheels and 180mph speedometer (and accompanying 3.25 to 1 differential). It has had just three owners from new and comes with hardtop, books, tools, photo documentation of the restoration, and the original radio. It is ready to be shown on the elite show circuit, or driven anywhere in the world.

The restoration was completed by a perfectionist and it shows. The engine is a 9.5:1 compression ratio blueprinted unit with sport camshaft, and the level at which the mechanical work was completed is immediately obvious when driving the car. Certainly this is one of the finest driving 300SL’s that Fantasy Junction has had the pleasure to offer. The car has been fitted with a modern Mercedes CD player made by Becker, while the original Becker Mexico is also included. Less than 500 miles ago, the car was serviced to include oil change, oil and air filter service, fluid checks, chassis lubrication, and a few other minor items.

The car is in outstanding cosmetic condition, both inside and out. The paintwork is first rate, with excellent luster and finish, a particularly difficult feat given that this car is black. The panel fit and gaps are excellent, and the panels are extremely straight. The chrome was completed to very high standards and has no pitting, and only the lightest of wear. The special factory 6 wheels are excellent, and are shod with Michelin XWX tires. The headlamps are Cibié units, and the glass and lights are excellent throughout.

The interior is also extremely nice, with stunning dashboard. The instruments have been beautifully restored and display no fading or discoloration whatsoever. All instruments work, including the clock. The switches, chrome, and trim have been restored to superlative standards as well. The correct materials were employed throughout, from the Roser leather upholstery to the square weave carpets to the rubber matting on the floors. The modern radio has been discreetly installed in the correct location, and the car also has a concealed K40 radar system. There are almost no indications of wear since the restoration.

The engine compartment is extremely clean and correct throughout. It has not been over-restored, but is instead faithful to the original appearance and feel of the car. This means that the intake runners are not polished, nor is the valve cover too shiny. The original decals have been faithfully recreated and are applied in the correct places, while the vintage VDO washer bag and cadmium plating are further testaments to the attention that was paid and quality of the work in the engine compartment. The trunk is equally nice, with fully restored spare and jack.

This car is a true pleasure to drive, with the various aspects of its operation demonstrating the quality of workmanship and care that went into this car. The engine runs superbly, making good power and coming alive with particular urgency above 3500 rpm, thanks to the sport cam. The car pulls cleanly from 1000rpm, a remarkable feat for any 300SL, indicating how dialed in the fuel injection system is. The brakes stop the car evenly and effectively, with none of the “walking” that sometimes afflicts 300SL’s. The chassis is solid and the suspension operates very nicely, in a way that is remarkably modern in feel. There are no rattles to speak of, and the gearbox is also extremely satisfying to use.

This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a 300SL roadster of the highest caliber. Everything about this car makes it an ideal example for the discerning collector. The car’s specification is quite unique and desirable, and the execution nothing short of spectacular. The car is also highly complete with hard top, manual pack, tools, jack, spare, Becker Mexico radio, and photo documentation of the restoration. The car drives and shows wonderfully and is in all respects an outstanding stud of a car needing only a new owner.

Scanned photos from the restoration are located at the very bottom of the page.

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