1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing
Presentation
This 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL is one of 1,400 Gullwing coupes built during three years of production and was delivered new in the US in April 1956. Chassis 6500077 is said to have received a cosmetic refresh in 1986 that included a color change to white and a partial re-trim of the red leather interior. Purchased by the seller in 2010, the car is powered by a 3.0-liter M198 inline-six that features Bosch direct fuel injection and dry-sump lubrication. Additional features include a four-speed manual transmission, servo-assisted hydraulic drum brakes, four-wheel independent suspension with a rear swing axle, and body-color 15” steel wheels. This W198 coupe is now offered with a Mercedes-Benz Classic certificate, a two-piece matching luggage set, owner’s manuals, a set of bumper guards, and a clean California title in the seller’s name.
Development of the 300SL was spurred by US importer Max Hoffman’s suggestion that Mercedes produce a sports car appealing to the American market. The model inherited several design elements from the company’s W194 sports racers, including upward-opening doors made necessary by a high-silled lightweight tubular space frame. Introduced at the 1954 International Motor Sports Show in New York, the production version of the 300SL utilized steel bodywork with aluminum panels for the hood, trunk lid, door skins, rocker panels, and floorboards.
Originally finished in black, the body is said to have been repainted in 1986 in its current shade of white. Features include front and rear bumper guards, a driver-side Talbot mirror, pivot-out door handles, wheel-arch “eyebrows,” fender louvers with twin horizontal aluminum spears, and rear reflectors. A selection of paint-meter readings can be viewed in the photo gallery below.
Body-color 15” wheels wear matching hubcaps and are wrapped in 185HR15 Michelin XVS tires, while a spare housed in the trunk wears a Michelin XAS tire. The servo-assisted hydraulic braking system utilizes aluminum-finned drums all around, with duplex actuation at each front wheel.
The cabin is trimmed in red leather as specified on the Mercedes-Benz Classic certificate, and the seat bolsters and sills are said to have been reupholstered in 1986, at which time the rear carpets are believed by the seller to have been replaced. Features include color-keyed square-weave carpeting, black rubber floor mats, red lap belts, a dashboard-mounted rearview mirror and ashtray, and an ivory-color shift knob. A Kenwood CD player, two speakers, and a power-operated antenna were added under previous ownership.
The two-spoke, ivory-color steering wheel can be pivoted downward at its hub to facilitate entry and exit for the driver. A body-color dash fascia hosts VDO instrumentation including a 160-mph speedometer, a 7k-rpm tachometer, a windup clock, and gauges monitoring fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and oil temperature. The five-digit odometer shows 85k miles, approximately 500 of which have been added under current ownership.
Sold on 05/09/2026 for USD $1,550,000 to Leebrayton
Bids & Comments
E.Bugatti 2343
May 10, 2026 · 20:16
@pmason... "@ UncleFred1 lol my Breville cast aluminum toaster has a motorized lift and buttons labelled “a bit more” and “lift and look”. It’s very cool, but yeah, I miss the 300SL, 911S and AR 1750 spider a bit more."
I've got a Breville too... the 300SL of toasters! Congrats. Buyer, at what is going to be a steal!
I've got a Breville too... the 300SL of toasters! Congrats. Buyer, at what is going to be a steal!
May 10, 2026 · 16:41
I wax poetic about the first generation transistor radio my dad gave to my mom before she passed in 1958. Wish I had it now. 300 SLs are an entirely different type of dream like winning the lottery. Congrats on a fabulous car.
May 10, 2026 · 08:23
My dad always said before he passed..if you can ever afford one get it..you will always be smiling.
May 10, 2026 · 03:01
Congratulations to the winner! What a treasure to own!
May 10, 2026 · 02:45
@ UncleFred1 lol my Breville cast aluminum toaster has a motorized lift and buttons labelled “a bit more” and “lift and look”. It’s very cool, but yeah, I miss the 300SL, 911S and AR 1750 spider a bit more.
May 9, 2026 · 18:24
@Dollycat3. @UncleFred1. Iconic, for sure, but the only thing that was innovative about the car was the use of the fuel injection technology Mercedes developed during the war. Light weight tube frame construction was well known, for example, and the 300SL's trademark gullwing doors were the direct consequence of sacrificing easy entrance for side frame stiffness without adding what would have otherwise been unnecessary weight. Of course, it didn't hurt that the final street product was both relatively aerodynamic and gorgeous! The mundane sedan drivetrain and suspension served in a flat-out race car largely because it was typically overdesigned by Mercedes for durability in the first place. Overall, a remarkable achievement on a limited budget.
May 9, 2026 · 17:20
@UncleFred1 Music and automobiles are true time machines that bring us back to the first time we heard a particular song or saw a particular car. Which is why I also wax nostalgic about my many vintage drum kits I've played, sold, collected, and traded for over 50 years of drumming.
May 9, 2026 · 16:47
wonderfully fun car, but like a few cars i have had in the past (none that would come close to a gull wing), very scared to drive in regular traffic, too many idiot drivers extant..
May 9, 2026 · 16:15
Great buy. Very nice Benz. Enjoy
May 9, 2026 · 16:12
post pictures of you pulling it with your bus Lee !!!
May 9, 2026 · 16:11
Congrats!
May 9, 2026 · 16:10
@Leebrayton - Congratulations my man!! I saw the car when it came into MB Classic Center. Enjoy it
May 9, 2026 · 16:10
Not for the claustrophobic, the plus sized , or the poor...........
May 9, 2026 · 16:10
Lucky man lucky man
May 9, 2026 · 16:10
I worked at European Motors in Seattle in the early "80's and there were 7 of these Gullwings in the shop at the same time.
May 9, 2026 · 16:10
Anyone got some spare blood pressure meds?
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
I was only $50K off on my sale estimate!
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
Deal! @Leebrayton knows!
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
Thank you all! I look forward to meeting the new owner!
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
Nothing buy class from Johnny!
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
Congrats, @LeeBrayton! You just stole yourself an automotive icon!
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
well, back to work :(
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
OK, back to work everyone
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
Lee…well bid. Hope that the reserve is met!
May 9, 2026 · 16:09
@Getragwerk 😂 lol
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
Congratulations 🍾 on an absolute automotive Icon🥂
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
@wllm because it's not possible to bid against yourself
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
I've gotten really good at faking working... carry on.
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
does the Kenwood radio work? I'm making up my mind whether to bid or not
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
web - everyone is so sensitive on that topic
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
JohnnyJ don't let us down...
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
My #1 favorite car of all time.
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
Maybe this auction will go on past 3pm? EST
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
"Did he just bid against himself?"
If I had $100 every time that was asked I'd place the next bid. Refresh...
If I had $100 every time that was asked I'd place the next bid. Refresh...
May 9, 2026 · 16:08
What an amazing timeless car, so iconic
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
There you go Lee
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Refresh your browser
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
@wllm no
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Bid in the amount of $1,550,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
And if the tartan Scotch fabric of the "fitted" luggage doesn't match your clan's kilt, RE-tailor it !
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
@Captainclink there’s your number.
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Did he just bid against himself?
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
There’s Johnny
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Atta boy Johnny, never let the enemy know how much ammo is in the magazine!
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Bid in the amount of $1,500,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:07
Restating my 2.5 claim to take it
May 9, 2026 · 16:06
I'm anxious and not even bidding on this!
May 9, 2026 · 16:06
"Another 50K I’ll bet will buy it!"
50k I can afford. Can't afford the additional $1.45m though.
50k I can afford. Can't afford the additional $1.45m though.
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:06
Bid in the amount of $1,495,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
YES
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
“Adam Levine and his supermodel ran out of gas in a Gullwing”? Now I know where the song Payphone came from.
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Bid in the amount of $1,455,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
I hopped on here at 11:58 and the bid is $1,160,000, I check back in at 12:20 to see what it sold for, and the beat continues. Wonderful!! 👏🏽👏🏽
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Another 50K I'll bet will buy it!
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Guess if you've missed out on a gullwing before, this is hard to let go ...
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Going for the kill shot
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Real increments
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
BAM
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Whomp!
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
There ya go. Kill bid?
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
"Adam Levine one day drove one with his supermodel wife and ran it out of gas !"
I can think of worse dilemmas than being stuck in a Gullwing with a supermodel...
I can think of worse dilemmas than being stuck in a Gullwing with a supermodel...
May 9, 2026 · 16:05
Now that's a counter bid!!
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:04
Bid in the amount of $1,450,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:04
"it works like a universal credential to end all gatekeeps."
Universal credentials don't come cheap.
Universal credentials don't come cheap.
May 9, 2026 · 16:04
These bidders are trying.
May 9, 2026 · 16:04
Think I'm putting my popcorn bet on @JohnnyJ he's committed...
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Just imagine. There is no concours, no C&C, no exotic club, not a single friggin room or space where you show up with this car, and it doesn't end up owning the whole place. There is no exclusion of any kind, it works like a universal credential to end all gatekeeps.
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Bid in the amount of $1,380,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
IMHO I think we’re getting close to a number the seller would accept
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Are we down to two or is there a megalodon still circling the boat waiting to strike?? And there you go!
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
It needs at least a $1.5M bid I suspect.
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
New Blood!
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
@3Pedalonly - Actually, in that situation, running out of gas sounds good to me!
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Bid in the amount of $1,375,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Heeeeers Johnny!
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Get it Johnny!
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:03
Bid in the amount of $1,350,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:02
Bid in the amount of $1,330,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:02
Super sexy ? You betcha ! Adam Levine one day drove one with his supermodel wife and ran it out of gas !
May 9, 2026 · 16:02
@Captainclink “soon” = “2 minute clock start + (N bids * (15 to 110) seconds)) + Popcorn Comments”
So, maybe before dinner?
So, maybe before dinner?
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:01
Bid in the amount of $1,325,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:01
Last minute hail Mary?
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:01
Bid in the amount of $1,320,000
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:00
Bid in the amount of $1,315,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 16:00
Bid in the amount of $1,310,000
May 9, 2026 · 16:00
@Captianlink
Bingo!
Bingo!
May 9, 2026 · 16:00
We'll find out soon, won't we?
May 9, 2026 · 15:59
@Captainclink. Think you’re 3-500,000 light
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:59
Bid in the amount of $1,305,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:59
To @sunset64…you obviously love this car.🥹. If it doesn’t sell, well, it just means more lovely drives in the car. And you would still get to walk down to the garage and give her a hug. Sell something else and keep her…🥰
May 9, 2026 · 15:59
$1.5m and you can can take it out a beat your buddies in their "slow" Gullwing. All because you got a spicier roadster motor. #letsgo
Viccms1
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:59
Bid in the amount of $1,300,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
Bid in the amount of $1,220,000
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
Bid in the amount of $1,215,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
@59Ponton
Bingo
Bingo
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
My guess would be a Million Five!
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
This is a fun one to watch….
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
Bid in the amount of $1,210,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:58
Past sales indicate you can’t pay too much for one of these. Maybe too soon on occasion but never too much.
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
Wonder where the reserve is set at? Any ideas?...... 😎
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
Bid in the amount of $1,200,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
Bid in the amount of $1,190,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
I believe there was a song years ago called "Go Johnny Go"
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
Bid in the amount of $1,185,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:57
I've never been the 1k bid increment comment guy, but could you imagine losing this over 1k? I mean I've accepted that I lose it over 1M plus but 1k...
car-mechanic
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Bid in the amount of $1,181,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Got my popcorn out. Ready to watch the spectacle! Let's Go!!!!!
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Bid in the amount of $1,180,000
car-mechanic
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Bid in the amount of $1,175,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Folks, please don’t get bogged down with the engine swap mania. Yes, it has a roadster engine, but they were actually better in many ways, and yes, in pure originality terms, it ain’t perfect. But if Nate and John at MBCC said they wouldn’t change a thing, good enough for me!!! 👍😊
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
In a world that had a DeLorean sell for 7 figures this car deserves a lot more than the current bids.
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
$7 in California
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
@Ramenator. I don't think anyone bidding on this is worried about gas prices.
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:56
Bid in the amount of $1,170,000
car-mechanic
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:55
Bid in the amount of $1,166,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:55
Well, gas is shooting up to $6 soooooooooooooooooo
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:55
Bid in the amount of $1,165,000
car-mechanic
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
Bid in the amount of $1,161,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
It must be 5:00 somewhere. Peace.
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
Bid in the amount of $1,160,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
If this car goes for less the. 1.5 then someone got a smoking deal. The roadster motor is just fine. FFS…there are less then 1400 left in the world and more then half are locked behind a door with people picking the lint out of the vents to preserve it!
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
this is going to be a long slow road to RNM at this pace
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
I love the color combo.
car-mechanic
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:54
Bid in the amount of $1,156,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:53
Please don't let $7/gallon intimidate you! It's a sacrifice you must make for a few days 😁 Bid to your heart's content!
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:53
Bid in the amount of $1,155,000
awm
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:53
Bid in the amount of $1,150,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:53
Bid in the amount of $1,140,000
awm
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:53
Bid in the amount of $1,135,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:52
Bid in the amount of $1,130,000
awm
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:52
Bid in the amount of $1,125,000
JohnnyJ
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:52
Bid in the amount of $1,120,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:51
Where are the bidders on this icon?!?!
May 9, 2026 · 15:51
calling a 2.5
May 9, 2026 · 15:51
These are so expensive and iconic at this point that I bet canned exhaust is worth something. Free idea for winning bidder to help offset the cost!
awm
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:51
Bid in the amount of $1,115,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:50
@Sunset64 On the bright side, If this beauty doesn't get moving you will be enjoying more time in front of the star!
Kumite
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:49
Bid in the amount of $1,110,000
Viccms1
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:48
Bid in the amount of $1,100,000
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 9, 2026 · 15:43
As the auction comes to a close in less than a half hour, I want to sincerely thank all the bidders and all those who wrote your positive comments about my beautiful machine. It has been an absolute privilege to own what was a childhood dream for me. I hope the new owner will look at the star on the steering wheel every time they sit in this car and relive the emotion I felt every time I drove it. I also hope they share this experience by showing it where others can see it and have there own stories about the time they saw one of the most beautiful cars ever built. Thank you!
awm
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:42
Bid in the amount of $1,050,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:41
At the prices modern cars are, these true blue chip classic sports cars like the 300SL are a deal. No to mention the 300SL is a terrific drivers car!
May 9, 2026 · 15:39
Carl Benz patented his first vehicle 140 years ago... "Engineered like no other car in the world."
Period. Olde English Ivory knob, wheel, and body is also nice
Gullwings remain at the top of most lists of the most people. 500 miles in past 15 years - not enough !
Period. Olde English Ivory knob, wheel, and body is also nice
Gullwings remain at the top of most lists of the most people. 500 miles in past 15 years - not enough !
kmchi43
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:39
Bid in the amount of $1,000,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:38
Bid in the amount of $995,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:33
@Sunset64 Man do I miss those days at Irvine Cars & Coffee, especially at the Crystal Cove location. Cannot wait to see your collection one of these days.
May 9, 2026 · 15:33
A rare breed better to buy one or a decent classic than just writing about them.
May 9, 2026 · 15:32
$1MM commuter 🤩
May 9, 2026 · 15:31
Unless bidding takes off in the next hour this will for sure be a no sale
May 9, 2026 · 15:26
@Getragwerk I'm putting that video up there as an all time favorite too!! @Sunset64 You still have 50 minutes, find the keys and let's go!
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:21
Bid in the amount of $975,000
May 9, 2026 · 15:20
@Getragwerk Esta perro ese cabron piloto! Thats what I kept saying in my head watching the video. Thank you, enjoyed every curve of it! For those none Spanish speakers the literal translation is "He's dog that mf pilot" 😂 Colloquial english translation "Bad A$$ fknn driver"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE1bA4gAFsw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE1bA4gAFsw
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 9, 2026 · 15:19
Thank you for the positive comments, looking back at events over the years, I truly enjoyed so much. I want to share these fond memories from 2014, 2016 and 2017 and 2019.
May 9, 2026 · 15:14
Having eff-you money is one thing. What you need to develop is eff-you money personality and attitude... I guess that requires the upbringing. Here's for @Middie and please, this is not for the faint of heart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE1bA4gAFsw
(one of my favorite Youtube videos of all time)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kE1bA4gAFsw
(one of my favorite Youtube videos of all time)
May 9, 2026 · 15:12
When these are being sold here I often feel compelled to post.... Mercedes Benz 300SL driven in glorious anger. Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Driven Flat-Out On Mountain Hillclimb Is Pure White-Knuckled Amazing: Video https://share.google/r9VcawRwYnkvHRMe6
Fabulous car. GLWA to all pertinent players. Thanks for letting me share.
Fabulous car. GLWA to all pertinent players. Thanks for letting me share.
May 9, 2026 · 15:09
@Martyn10 😂. Perhaps the boss has a secret fleet you can sell, as well? 🍻👍😇🇬🇧
May 9, 2026 · 15:07
Long ago I read somewhere that the Gullwing model was no
longer made because some film star rolled it upside down... Wonder if it was really the CAUSE ?
longer made because some film star rolled it upside down... Wonder if it was really the CAUSE ?
May 9, 2026 · 15:07
Thanks for the drive vid, @sunset64! Been a GW lover since about 1973 and realize I’ll likely never set butt in one so videos like yours always make my day. GLWTA
May 9, 2026 · 15:06
I can confirm this car is a gem, and the seller is the most down to earth guy. His willingness to bring the car to the MB Classic Center where Nate was the go-to expert is priceless. GLWTA and cannot wait to see what a hour-and-half brings...
MW300SL
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 15:05
Bid in the amount of $951,000
May 9, 2026 · 14:50
There are a few cars in the world history of cars that are worth putting in the Pantheon. The 300SL Gullwing is one of those cars. Zero code errors - just exquisite hand-built beauty and meticulously machined parts, coalescing into a sum that could easily win most beautiful car of all time. This one has a few issues after 70 years of existence (70 YEARS OF DRIVING - NUTS!!), but retains more than enough to warrant what I hope to be a massive hammer price. If I had the money and will to purchase this car, I'd continue cranking that Kenwood on long regular drives, wash it occasionally and worship it daily. This one is a life changer.
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 14:43
Bid in the amount of $950,000
carlovers
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 14:23
Bid in the amount of $926,000
May 9, 2026 · 14:14
The Roadster (introduced in 1957) featured a higher compression ratio and more "spicy" camshafts, increasing output from 215hp to roughly 250hp
May 9, 2026 · 14:00
Back in the early 80's, I was driving along the Ausable River toward Lake Placid, NY. As I navigated a blind corner along the river, a fire engine red Gullwing passed on 2 wheels heading in the opposite direction. It's still my most memorable experience driving on a public road over the last 53 years. I've admired just 2 up close and still consider them the 1st truely exotic car of my lifetime.
May 9, 2026 · 13:54
NYC Kids TV Host Sandy Becker , Loonytunes and Wonderama , brought in photos of his brand spanking new one in to show us kids . It was around 7 -8. The doors were fascinating . I was already a car guy, but XK 120 &140 coupes were my faves.
May 9, 2026 · 13:41
Would a more spirited driving demo have honored this lovely car a bit more?
May 9, 2026 · 13:37
in 1979 I was working at the old Hughes Aircraft facility in Culver City - right on the ocean where the Spruce Goose was built. We were building the F18 radar there and one of the most experienced radar engineers was Lee Spalding, USC trained, grew up in Gardena and lived in PalosVerdes, He had one of these. It was his daily driver and it had a great deal of miles on it - all original. During the winter he was having trouble with it running - he did all of the work - and we discussed the problem, I was 23, he was 70. He opened the hood while it was running and sparks were jumping all over - not just from ignition wires - since we were/are both EEs, we went straight to theory, where the car was not designed to run in %90+ humidity. I never drove it, Lee never offered, always admired it. He stored it outside since he had a Hughes Radar (MK1?) in his garage that he restored to operation - he bought it surplus.............have no idea where the car ended up...
May 9, 2026 · 13:25
These 300SL's (Gullwing and Convertible) are just breathtaking cars. Timeless. Any time I see one in person, they stop me in my tracks. Not many cars do that to me anymore.
kmchi43
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 12:54
Bid in the amount of $925,000
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 12:47
Bid in the amount of $900,000
Viccms1
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 10:20
Bid in the amount of $810,000
coinmachine
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 09:33
Bid in the amount of $805,000
MMurgado
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 09:08
Bid in the amount of $803,000
May 9, 2026 · 08:57
The first "supercar".
coinmachine
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 08:21
Bid in the amount of $802,000
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 9, 2026 · 08:05
Reminiscing of cruising down PCH in 2019 to cars and coffee.
May 9, 2026 · 07:40
How agile does one need to be to enter and exit a Gullwing?
kmchi43
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 07:33
Bid in the amount of $800,000
May 9, 2026 · 07:27
Why would you change from very elegant Black to Ho-hum white ???
Leebrayton
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 07:06
Bid in the amount of $775,000
May 9, 2026 · 06:55
Bid in the amount of $750,000
Firebird1967
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 06:15
Bid in the amount of $701,000
May 9, 2026 · 06:05
I would cheerfully drill a large hole in my bank account if I knew it would buy a 300SL Gullwing. I would behave irrationally and be glad of the opportunity to do it.
May 9, 2026 · 05:35
I'm not worthy.
May 9, 2026 · 05:21
Much nicer than a show car. I was fortunate enough to drive a 300SL Roadster many lives ago. The brakes were out of adjustment so I didn't go very far or very fast but oh my oh my these things are POWERFUL and beautiful in every detail. There is so much to like about this particular car and owner. GLWA.
May 9, 2026 · 05:13
Having this in my garage for Sunday morning drives would fix me.. I'm sure of it
May 9, 2026 · 03:07
So the Classic Center confirmed that the Current Engine is a replacement Engine with a later Roadster Throttle Body ?
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 9, 2026 · 02:53
Yes the expert was Nate.
May 9, 2026 · 01:51
Bid in the amount of $700,000
May 9, 2026 · 01:49
Does it have Bluetooth?
May 9, 2026 · 01:41
Really appreciate Seller’s post/response to all the questions. Hopefully Nate was the expert at MB Classic who looked at it - the clarity of the experts view sounds like Nate.
May 9, 2026 · 00:53
I all seriousness there are very few car owners I’m truly jealous of but this is one of them. Would love to be able to drive one before I cross the rainbow bridge.
May 9, 2026 · 00:42
I never cared for the gullwing. It insists on itself. Any Family Guy fans will get the joke.
Swingandamiss
Bid
May 9, 2026 · 00:40
Bid in the amount of $600,000
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 8, 2026 · 16:42
During my 16 years of owning this car I have enjoyed driving it, selling this car was a difficult decision, in doing so I have listed the car with the information I have. Based on my desire to be completely transparent, I researched the specific items discussed over several comments, however, since the engine and brakes were done before my ownership I could not confirm for sure if the number stamped on the plate and on the block were original, which was on the MBZ Certification. So today I drove the car to the Long Beach Mercedes Classic Center and had the privilege to meet with John Parenteau, the manager of service where they restore 300SL's. He spent a great deal of time with me and my car, and asked his expert to look at the car. He confirmed that the engine number plate was the accurate plate, however, the engine came from a 300SL roadster and showed me the specific things about the engine that made it unique, he confirmed the rare distributor was from my car, and that the intake manifold is correct and that the "R" on the casting does not mean Roadster. He further looked at the wheels and brakes, and said these are factory roadster spindles and brakes. He explained that the roadster updated throttle control provided a benefit over the earlier one and stops the dieseling. I asked John to test drive the car and give me his thoughts, he was impressed by the mechanics and the performance and told me that unless i desired to do a full restoration to make it a show car he wouldn't change anything. I hope that this clears up the comments and that any serious buyer who wants a great 300SL to drive and enjoy would consider this special car.
May 8, 2026 · 16:36
May 8, 2026 · 16:12
What!! You deleted EJboyd’s comment!!! He’s one of the most respected Gullwing Owner. The seller’s own photos show the office engine tag ( in German) that its a replacement Engine.
May 8, 2026 · 13:02
Unfortunately, seller has destroyed his credibility with comments about the engine. It is obviously not the original engine but is a replacement poorly restamped with the original engine number.
May 8, 2026 · 12:21
@Fleche_dOr
Very complete analysis as usual. I just provided the book back cover tickler. You provide the book! Great information and astute takes. I do know that in very recent years the obligatory high bid for a pretty nice one has climbed from the $1.5 to $2.0 range. And no, I will not be bidding... GLWTA! Cheers, Bill
Very complete analysis as usual. I just provided the book back cover tickler. You provide the book! Great information and astute takes. I do know that in very recent years the obligatory high bid for a pretty nice one has climbed from the $1.5 to $2.0 range. And no, I will not be bidding... GLWTA! Cheers, Bill
May 8, 2026 · 12:07
@Sunset64 I disagree. You continue to advertise this car with its original engine but all photos show otherwise. I feel the little time it takes to remove the valve cover and get the casting dates to support your claims would be beneficial to your auction if that is how you wanted to advertise it. The block date takes no effort at all, just a photo. The intakes do share the same part numbers but have casting changes, that is a roadster intake. The throttle body has no performance advantage over the previous version, just an added solenoid. I would push the likely roadster cam and injection pump as the performance advantages. This looks like a great driver and hopefully it will see more road time with the new owner but I do feel that representing it accurately is very important to make sure it goes to the right person. GLWTA.
May 8, 2026 · 11:38
There is a "Mercedes Benz Tauschaggregat" (exchange engine) tag attached to the block. This, along with the grinder marks and crude re-stamping of the engine number, leads to the conclusion that this is not the original engine.
May 8, 2026 · 03:33
My apology, your car’s Mercedes Certificate refers to a “Windshield Washing Device” which explains the Roadster Windshield Washing bag and the Roadster style Squirter on the hood. (Not withstanding a few Hot Rodder performance modifications.)
GLWTA
GLWTA
clindsey8
Bid
May 8, 2026 · 03:25
Bid in the amount of $570,000
May 8, 2026 · 03:09
@jb007. James Bond? I thought he drove an Aston Martin!
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 8, 2026 · 02:08
The previous owner invested in performance upgrades for improved drivability, using the later model Bosch mixture control, which is vastly superior for performance, and the front disk brakes/ wheels (300SL), which make a significant improvement for me as enthusiast who enjoys driving the car and the car is much safer and easier to drive. If the new owner intends to show the car rather than drive it these components can be replaced. With respect to the intake manifold, both the Gullwing and the Roadster use the same intake manifold (198 140 0101) which can be found in the Parts List book of the Gullwing on page 40 and can be found page 84 of the Roadster Parts list book. This is a beautiful authentic unrestored 300SL that has been on this earth for 70 years and has been maintained and enjoyed through its life, it has undergone an engine rebuild with upgrades many years ago. It has been maintained by me for the last 16 years and i have enjoyed every mile. As stated before I have driven the car approximately 500 miles, mostly to local car events for others to enjoy, your comment that its only being driven 500 miles in 15 years is "concerning", implying there is a negativity to this, thats a shame because many people would love to drive 500 miles in a 300 SL Gullwing. unfortunately I can only drive 1 car at a time and this one gets more attention then most. I appreciate the constructive observations you made. This is not a concours restored example. The engine to the best of my knowledge is the original, during engine work of many of the 200 rare cars I have owned, a camshaft or even a head may have been machined or replaced with factory parts, I don't believe disassembling the engine is a reasonable request. In the interest of time and transparency I would like to disclose that the tires, the battery, the spark plugs, spark plug wires, the brake pads, wiper blades and all fluids in the car are not the original ones from 1956, these have been replaced over the last 70 years.
Jb007
Bid
May 8, 2026 · 00:22
Bid in the amount of $565,000
May 7, 2026 · 23:19
What has not been brought up is why this car is running late roadster steel wheels and front disc brakes. The roadster intake manifold and late throttle body along with the previously mention roadster parts tied with the ground down engine number is what raises the biggest concerns. It would be beneficial to pull cam cover and get some casting dates off the cylinder head and camshaft along with the block. The block casting date is located on the drivers side under the injection pump, you can see it from the rear or with a mirror.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 7, 2026 · 16:57
For those who intend to buy this car I really suggest coming to see the car in person, to experience this incredible machine. Pictures provide a lot of detail but cannot replace experiencing the car in person. I encourage those who are serious to make an appointment to see it in person.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 7, 2026 · 16:55
In response to the comments related to "lots of Roadster parts on this car" I would like to point out that the bumpers and overriders are correct for the 300SL Gullwing (W198-040). As shown in the Spare Parts List book supplied with the sale. When compared to the 300SL Roadster (W198-040) Spare Parts List book), the following chart shows the part numbers for both cars and what page they are located on. For those not familiar with the details there are 2 misconceptions. First is that the Gullwing's did not have overriders. Most European Models did not have them, they were an option in 1956. Most cars imported to the US (like this one) did have them. The second misconception, which has been pointed out to me at many car shows, is the rear overriders with the license plates lights were only on Roadsters. This is not true, the ones without the lights were available up to Chassis no. 5500160. From Chassis no. 5500161 the were the same as the roadster. This can be confirmed on the pages referred to in Parts list books shown in the below charts. I have also included with the sale the Euro style small rear overriders with license plate lights if the buyer does not like the originally supplied overriders. A side note is that the 300SL Roadster's used the earlier Gullwing rear overriders without the license plate lights as their front overriders. Bumper Guards
Mecedes 300 SL Gullwing W198-040 (Pt. man. pg. 275)
Front RHS 198 880 08 55
Front LHS 198 880 07 55
Rear RHS 198 880 02 55
Rear LHS 198 880 01 55
Rear RHS 198 880 06 55 Chassis up to 5500160
Rear LHS 198 880 05 55 Chassis after to 5500161
Mercedes 300 SL Roadster W198-042 (Pt. man. pg. 460)
Front RHS 198 880 02 55
Front LHS 198 880 01 55
Rear RHS 198 880 06 55
Rear LHS 198 880 05 55
Also, the comment regarding the Grille is inaccurate. This is not a Roadster front grill, this is the original Gullwing front grill. The Roadster grill does not fit on the Gullwing. They share some parts, such as the star and the upper ornamental frame. However, the lower Ornamental frame is very different and both the left and right garnish moldings are different sizes. The below Chart shows the part numbers and the references to the Parts List book page numbers as a reference. Front Grill Assembly
Mecedes 300 SL Gullwing W198-040 (Pt. man. pg. 282)
Mercedes Star RHS 198 880 01 86
Gardish Molding LHS 198 880 05 23
Gardish Molding RHS 198 880 06 23
Ornamental Frame Upper 121 888 00 22
Ornamental Frame Lower 121 888 01 22
Mecedes 300 SL Roadster W198-042 (Pt. man. pg. 470)
Mercedes Star RHS 198 880 01 86
Gardish Molding LHS 198 880 03 23
Gardish Molding RHS 198 880 04 23
Ornamental Frame Upper 121 888 00 22 replaced by 121 888 01 22
Ornamental Frame Lower 198 888 00 22
With respect to the comment about the "Brake Fluid Reservoir is from a Roadster, this is incorrect, both cars came with the metal canister reservoir and the Roadster parts lists shows and alternate plastic one without explanation of when or why this was different. The reservoir in this car was updated by the previous owner to an aftermarket plastic one to be able to see the fluid level without opening the cap. An original Canister type can be purchased for $129 if the new owner prefers one. The Roadster part accurately described in this comment is the wiper bottle type. the previous owner updated the pump and bottle to the Roadster VDO type. If the buyer wants to replace the bottle with the original glass type it can be purchased for $680.
Mecedes 300 SL Gullwing W198-040 (Pt. man. pg. 275)
Front RHS 198 880 08 55
Front LHS 198 880 07 55
Rear RHS 198 880 02 55
Rear LHS 198 880 01 55
Rear RHS 198 880 06 55 Chassis up to 5500160
Rear LHS 198 880 05 55 Chassis after to 5500161
Mercedes 300 SL Roadster W198-042 (Pt. man. pg. 460)
Front RHS 198 880 02 55
Front LHS 198 880 01 55
Rear RHS 198 880 06 55
Rear LHS 198 880 05 55
Also, the comment regarding the Grille is inaccurate. This is not a Roadster front grill, this is the original Gullwing front grill. The Roadster grill does not fit on the Gullwing. They share some parts, such as the star and the upper ornamental frame. However, the lower Ornamental frame is very different and both the left and right garnish moldings are different sizes. The below Chart shows the part numbers and the references to the Parts List book page numbers as a reference. Front Grill Assembly
Mecedes 300 SL Gullwing W198-040 (Pt. man. pg. 282)
Mercedes Star RHS 198 880 01 86
Gardish Molding LHS 198 880 05 23
Gardish Molding RHS 198 880 06 23
Ornamental Frame Upper 121 888 00 22
Ornamental Frame Lower 121 888 01 22
Mecedes 300 SL Roadster W198-042 (Pt. man. pg. 470)
Mercedes Star RHS 198 880 01 86
Gardish Molding LHS 198 880 03 23
Gardish Molding RHS 198 880 04 23
Ornamental Frame Upper 121 888 00 22 replaced by 121 888 01 22
Ornamental Frame Lower 198 888 00 22
With respect to the comment about the "Brake Fluid Reservoir is from a Roadster, this is incorrect, both cars came with the metal canister reservoir and the Roadster parts lists shows and alternate plastic one without explanation of when or why this was different. The reservoir in this car was updated by the previous owner to an aftermarket plastic one to be able to see the fluid level without opening the cap. An original Canister type can be purchased for $129 if the new owner prefers one. The Roadster part accurately described in this comment is the wiper bottle type. the previous owner updated the pump and bottle to the Roadster VDO type. If the buyer wants to replace the bottle with the original glass type it can be purchased for $680.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 7, 2026 · 16:06
Please let me know if you received the email, if not i will contact BAtwhite glove and have them contact you.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 7, 2026 · 15:55
Just sent again, perhaps check junk mail
May 7, 2026 · 15:49
@Sunset64 That's weird, I didn't receive it. Can you please try again?
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 7, 2026 · 15:47
I replied to your email directly, please check this.
May 7, 2026 · 15:47
@sunset64 Hi, I sent you a PM this morning at 7am requesting to inspect the car on Wednesday and I did not receive a reply. Can you please check this?
May 7, 2026 · 11:27
Somehow in its past, this car picked up a lot of Roadster parts: Front and Rear Bumpers, Grill, washer bag, brake fluid reservoir, Mixture Controller!
May 7, 2026 · 10:07
I have not read all the comments, however, I would like to know why the engine was replaced. Yes, the the number, 6500088 is stamped in the block, however, the stamping is erratic and not consistent with the way Mercedes Benz number stamped their 300SL engines. If an engine was replaced by an authorized dealer, the new block was unstamped and it was up to the mechanic to transfer the engine number. On this particular 300SL cast iron engine block has grinding marks, which indicates this engine block was acquired from another car. Good luck.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 6, 2026 · 14:34
In response to your question the certification from Merceds was given after the inspection. It shows the engine number as correct. Further, the question regarding only driving 500 miles during my ownership is because I own many cars and cannot drive them all at the same time. As for the service records, I have had my full time mechanic service the car since I bought it. I will post the services performed.
May 6, 2026 · 09:57
This seems to be an unrestored Gullwing, with paint and interior work in 1986. A little concerning is 500miles in the last 15 years. Still, its bound to hit its value by the end of the auction. Are there any service records? ( personally, I have 300+ pages of records over 60 years of ownership.)
May 6, 2026 · 07:32
I do not recall any GW that didn't quickly hit $1M..........is it the "confusion" over the engine and the non-MB Classic certificate?? The Santa Barbara certificate does not have the same gravity as a MB Classic certificate. After the Kienle scandal, car buyers (especially 300SL) are more discerning.
May 6, 2026 · 04:46
@Hoppy18
RE: “In short: Hotter than the hinges of hell!”
Wow …I’ve never heard that expression before …a new kind of BaTucation, along with the stats you posted. Thx! The expression can also be modified for seasonal use by adding the words "on Halloween." Paints a picture, don't it? LOL!
RE: “In short: Hotter than the hinges of hell!”
Wow …I’ve never heard that expression before …a new kind of BaTucation, along with the stats you posted. Thx! The expression can also be modified for seasonal use by adding the words "on Halloween." Paints a picture, don't it? LOL!
May 6, 2026 · 00:42
@sunset64, this documentation should address the numbers on the block that many viewers are concerned have been erased. please respond/comment accordingly.
May 6, 2026 · 00:41
@sunset64, I apologize if I’ve overlooked something. If you can see, I’ve already placed a bid. Can you provide images of the Mercedes-Benz certification that you have obtained?
May 5, 2026 · 20:47
May 5, 2026 · 20:40
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 5, 2026 · 19:38
Regarding Santa Barbra Classics, they were the dealer I bought the car from and they had the certification performed at my request. They were a great classic car dealer who I bought cars from for many years.
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 5, 2026 · 19:37
I see the comment below regarding "Is there rust peeking out from under the window seal on the upper right corner of the drivers door window?" That is not rust in was a remnant of the glue. For clarification the doors are aluminum, not steel and don't rust. I hope that helps.
May 5, 2026 · 19:32
Beautiful car! Would likely draw more bids and $ in its original black. GLWTA
May 5, 2026 · 17:42
Honestly surprised this has not passed the million mark already.
May 5, 2026 · 11:04
Please clarify, what is the "Mercedes Benz Certificate Santa Barbara Classics"? Is this a dealership program?? I am familiar with Mercedes Benz Classics
May 5, 2026 · 10:28
Thank you gentlemen for your tags today. ______
@billyblyth: “In short: Hotter than the hinges of hell!"
Wow …I’ve never heard that expression before …a new kind of BaTucation, along with the stats you posted. ______
@whipcity76: “My Boss who owned the prominent NorthShore ChicagoLand Store I worked at in the ‘70’s"
Nice story. What an experience seeing “automobiles” during that era. Must be inetresting for you to digest many of the “cars” you see today. ______
@a990dna: “…As we climbed the mountain, I started feeling a little sick and asked Dad to pull over. And there it was… a silver Mercedes Gullwing with the driver’s door lifted. I thought, surely, this must be Uncle Martin from My Favorite Martian."
A Hollywood script. I’m wondering if the Martian left earth with your dna :)
@billyblyth: “In short: Hotter than the hinges of hell!"
Wow …I’ve never heard that expression before …a new kind of BaTucation, along with the stats you posted. ______
@whipcity76: “My Boss who owned the prominent NorthShore ChicagoLand Store I worked at in the ‘70’s"
Nice story. What an experience seeing “automobiles” during that era. Must be inetresting for you to digest many of the “cars” you see today. ______
@a990dna: “…As we climbed the mountain, I started feeling a little sick and asked Dad to pull over. And there it was… a silver Mercedes Gullwing with the driver’s door lifted. I thought, surely, this must be Uncle Martin from My Favorite Martian."
A Hollywood script. I’m wondering if the Martian left earth with your dna :)
May 5, 2026 · 09:26
I had a flashback to 1985 when I worked for Union Oil at a 76 Station in Los Angeles, just south of Bel-Air, on the corner of Santa Monica Blvd and Beverly Glen. Robert Stack, of The Untouchables, would come in with his often for a fill up and have me check the oil. I believe the car is now part of the collection at The Petersen Automotive Museum. I know it was featured in a "Cars and Stars" exhibit they had there years ago. Quite a car!
May 5, 2026 · 09:13
Is there rust peeking out from under the window seal on the upper right corner of the drivers door window?
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 5, 2026 · 08:14
As for a color change, buyers choice, I bought the car for the color combination, if the new owner wants to change it back to black its a preference. Owning a car like this is a personal preference, make it your own!
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 5, 2026 · 08:13
The front and rear bumper guards were added in the 1980's along with fog lights, the fog lights were removed when i had Mercedes certify the car, the correct rear overriders are included with the car. As for the block, it was also reviewed by Mercedes at my request at the time of purchase and was confirmed as original. The origin of the date of the stamp cannot be confirmed, however the original plate was never touched.
May 5, 2026 · 08:10
All 1,927 viewers can move along now… nothing to see here. A color change and a concern over the engine pad stampings. I’ll take it off your hands…
Sunset64 (The Seller)
May 5, 2026 · 08:08
I wanted to thank you all for your interest in my car, i have owned this car for 16 years. It is an amazing car to drive. Please watch the videos. The engine is very strong and has significant torque. It is a car that can be driven daily or left for several months and will start right up and perform. My hope is that the next custodian of this great car will love it as much as i do and drive it. The experience of this car can only be felt, not explained. Enjoy the bidding, i am available to answer questions.
May 5, 2026 · 07:33
Local Mercedes dealer had a silver one on the showroom floor for several years. They are something to see “ in the flesh.” Original owner of that Gullwing was Clark Gable.
May 5, 2026 · 06:58
@70Duster
When as a young teenager around 1960 I first saw photos of the 300SL, I agreed with you that it was the most beautiful of all cars. But then, you know, times change and in '61 Jaguar came out with the XK-E Coupe. Sorry 300 - second place. I've been blessed in life to have driven a 300SL and owned an E-type. That we can have this discussion - Life is Good.
When as a young teenager around 1960 I first saw photos of the 300SL, I agreed with you that it was the most beautiful of all cars. But then, you know, times change and in '61 Jaguar came out with the XK-E Coupe. Sorry 300 - second place. I've been blessed in life to have driven a 300SL and owned an E-type. That we can have this discussion - Life is Good.
May 5, 2026 · 06:23
F/R bumpers appear to be Roadster style. Any service records?
May 5, 2026 · 04:49
I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the road with a 300SL. I recall the last occasion was during a Copperstate 1000 while we were returning to PHX from Bagdad. The Gullwings are in a very small group of iconic sports cars that just consume your senses, and make it nearly impossible to safely navigate. I hope I get the opportunity again🤓
May 5, 2026 · 04:47
This would look SO GOOD in my garage ,next to my 2011 in the same colors !
May 5, 2026 · 04:43
@Toadandsin, get your point and that of Mr.@mbzcollector. Frankly, have seen worse in all my days working retail but let’s see if there’s an explanation. If this goes back to when the car was produced, good luck getting a real explanation. A couple of owners displaced may have no idea. Good Hunting!
May 5, 2026 · 04:42
What always struck me as most remarkable about the original-and very successful- 300SL race cars from which these street cars were developed was that virtually the entire drive train was derived from the 300 sedan. Mercedes had no money at that time (early 1950s when Mercedes management decided to go racing again) to develop a purpose built racing drive train. The engine was "enhanced" of course (although not even fuel injection or ram tubes in the original race cars!), and with the wholly unsuitable (for racing) drastic camber variing swing axle (corrected on the 300SLR and 300SL convertible). The did it with three basic attributes: inherent durability, light weight and aerodynamics.
May 5, 2026 · 04:32
@Fpsocean this car has lots of roadster parts on it. my guess is that it was a the donor car for whatever repairs were done at some point. the engine number ground off further leads to that assumption
May 5, 2026 · 04:22
@billyblyth coolio
May 5, 2026 · 04:18
@mbzcollector seems to be concerned if the stamping was "modified"
It appears the right half of the area has been changed??? The engine number matches the data card, that's not his point. I looked at my 198 engine stamping.............level and uniform
I'm sure an explanation is imminent
It appears the right half of the area has been changed??? The engine number matches the data card, that's not his point. I looked at my 198 engine stamping.............level and uniform
I'm sure an explanation is imminent
May 5, 2026 · 04:14
@mike_breinin they're still always special to see and I love reading the comments when they pop up. A special day would be if/when we ever see a McLaren F1 here.
May 5, 2026 · 04:13
@whipcity76
The number might be legit, but the stamping does not look to be from the OEM
An explanation would be nice
The number might be legit, but the stamping does not look to be from the OEM
An explanation would be nice
May 5, 2026 · 03:33
Hello Mr.@mbzcollector, read your comment about the stamping of the engine block and was interested. Had a good look at Picture #292. I agree those crafty Swabians weren’t the neatest in stamping anything that wasn’t forged in their foundry. Anyway, from what I looked at, the number: M198.980.6500088 is quite legit. Looked it up through my notes when brainwashed with Mercedes Midwest Training in 1976. I do recall DBAG didn’t add another digit until later production when the 2 year reversed digits were replaced with “10/12/20/22” think in 1960. It was a really big deal from what our Instructor said. Chaos in Parts Distribution. Love doing these jaunts down memory lane. GLWTA!
May 5, 2026 · 03:28
The grandchildren's college funds are seriously at risk!
Gloccamora
Bid
May 5, 2026 · 03:28
Bid in the amount of $563,000
May 5, 2026 · 03:21
@19Gullwing63, I remember that car! When MBCA took their throng on The Route 66 Tour back in ‘06 one of our stops along the way was in Tulsa, OK. At the time I drove the tour in our S560 that just got delivered. It had gotten to us about a week before heading out. In Tulsa, the group was treated to free car washes at the local MB Dealer. There, proudly displayed was Clark Gable’s Car smack dab in the center of the showroom with security personnel and the usual pylons to keep public away. We were allowed to get up close and have a peek at it. Wow, it was in great shape. Not sure if it had been through a refreshening. Clark had a reputation of driving his cars hard when he owned them so no one knew if anything was done at the time we were looking at it. Of course, a “Not For Sale” tag was slid under one of the windscreen wipers! 20years ago, curious what it would have brought on the Market?
May 5, 2026 · 03:15
Hello and Good Morning Mr’s.@Dollycat3,@Hoppy18.Great to see you chiming in on this lovely Gullwing. Great era livery in keeping with the C1 Corvettes. This car was certainly loved and driven. For that I am very appreciative of. Yes, Garage Queens are nice to marvel at but to get them out and drive them is another kettle of fish entirely. Have only 1 experience with a Gullwing in all the years working retail for Mercedes-Benz
My Boss who owned the prominent NorthShore ChicagoLand Store I worked at in the ‘70’s had a Silver ‘57 with 20K on the odometer with IMHO a 3 rating. He’d pull it out every once in a great while to show it off for parades/events and one time when Singer, Andy Williams came in and was real serious about buying it. Think it was 1979. Didn’t get to drive it out of the barn where it resided but took the passenger seat. Still recall negotiating the ergonomics of the car to get in and thinking if I were dressed to the “9’s” it might be a real issue. Car roared to live and we were off. Driver knew what he was doing and we pulled the car onto the showroom floor for the day. I had to get back to my desk and missed the rubber-necks who’d seen the car from the street and scampered in to have a closer look. Boss set up perimeters with Salespeople to guard the public from getting too close. No deal was ever stroke as Mr. William’s Agent did all the negotiating and I was off from work. Did hear a figure from the scuttle-butt of $950K that was turned down! IMHO, that was a lot of money in 1979 and surely, the Boss could have bought many replacements for that figure. Alas, money talking and people still walking. There were a lot more 300SL’s that our Service Department worked on which we saw seasonally, think about 10 if I recall correctly. They’d come out around April until November. Beautiful machines along with their Gullwing counterparts. So, what can I say about this beauty. There are some areas that could use a brush up that would take this car to the next level. I say this only with respect to this car since it might present better and be more exciting to its’ new owner. Suspect the refreshening will not be inexpensive though would cost in to the car’s value down the road. These are key in Mercedes’s storied History and certainly would be key to a discriminating collection today and for future generations. GLWTA!
My Boss who owned the prominent NorthShore ChicagoLand Store I worked at in the ‘70’s had a Silver ‘57 with 20K on the odometer with IMHO a 3 rating. He’d pull it out every once in a great while to show it off for parades/events and one time when Singer, Andy Williams came in and was real serious about buying it. Think it was 1979. Didn’t get to drive it out of the barn where it resided but took the passenger seat. Still recall negotiating the ergonomics of the car to get in and thinking if I were dressed to the “9’s” it might be a real issue. Car roared to live and we were off. Driver knew what he was doing and we pulled the car onto the showroom floor for the day. I had to get back to my desk and missed the rubber-necks who’d seen the car from the street and scampered in to have a closer look. Boss set up perimeters with Salespeople to guard the public from getting too close. No deal was ever stroke as Mr. William’s Agent did all the negotiating and I was off from work. Did hear a figure from the scuttle-butt of $950K that was turned down! IMHO, that was a lot of money in 1979 and surely, the Boss could have bought many replacements for that figure. Alas, money talking and people still walking. There were a lot more 300SL’s that our Service Department worked on which we saw seasonally, think about 10 if I recall correctly. They’d come out around April until November. Beautiful machines along with their Gullwing counterparts. So, what can I say about this beauty. There are some areas that could use a brush up that would take this car to the next level. I say this only with respect to this car since it might present better and be more exciting to its’ new owner. Suspect the refreshening will not be inexpensive though would cost in to the car’s value down the road. These are key in Mercedes’s storied History and certainly would be key to a discriminating collection today and for future generations. GLWTA!
May 5, 2026 · 02:59
Every time I feel myself being razzle-dazzled into a drooling pile of lust for something Italian and exotic, a 300SL Gullwing comes into my prefrontal cortex and realigns the demonic possession the Italians have on me. And then I stupidly look at an Alfa Stradale 33 and the process starts all over again. I'll happily stay in the Gullwing camp for the duration of this auction - she's just so dang pretty, if not overtly sexually arrousing - I guess the upshot is, you fandango with the Italians and you marry the Gullwing. One should be so damn lucky.
moniyazi
Bid
May 5, 2026 · 00:28
Bid in the amount of $502,000
May 5, 2026 · 00:04
Does the color change affect value to a collector?
May 4, 2026 · 23:00
ART on WHEELS!!!
May 4, 2026 · 22:32
Interesting:
As a 58 year Gullwinger, I notice later (Roadster) windshield washer bag, and no room for the earlier glass container on the firewall. Could be a great opportunity. Switch to Rudge wheels and this car will be incredible for life!!
As a 58 year Gullwinger, I notice later (Roadster) windshield washer bag, and no room for the earlier glass container on the firewall. Could be a great opportunity. Switch to Rudge wheels and this car will be incredible for life!!
May 4, 2026 · 21:46
About 15 years ago, I was assigned to drive Clark Gable’s 300SL that had just been sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale event. The boss told me to drive it over to the holding building where they prep the cars for shipment to the new owners. It had just sold for $1.8M. A wonderful opportunity, if only I could figure out how to start the darn thing. The keybag with instructions had been removed. All I had was the key. Finally figured out the combination and delivered it safely (about a quarter mile drive). What a thrill. Probably the most expensive car I ever got to drive. Can’t imagine how much that same car, with the Gable provenance, would sell for today.
May 4, 2026 · 21:45
@Hoppy18…
I have a childhood story about the Gullwings. Dad was taking us kids up to Lake Arrowhead to play in the snow. We were in the ’64 Galaxie 500 XL, carving those turns like he was piloting an old fishing boat in rough seas. Then suddenly, a Gullwing passed us like we were standing still. I’d never seen one before—my eyes were glued to that Mercedes like it was a UFO. As we climbed the mountain, I started feeling a little sick and asked Dad to pull over. And there it was… a silver Mercedes Gullwing with the driver’s door lifted. I thought, surely, this must be Uncle Martin from My Favorite Martian. First—and last—time I ever saw a spaceship in our local mountains. 😉
I have a childhood story about the Gullwings. Dad was taking us kids up to Lake Arrowhead to play in the snow. We were in the ’64 Galaxie 500 XL, carving those turns like he was piloting an old fishing boat in rough seas. Then suddenly, a Gullwing passed us like we were standing still. I’d never seen one before—my eyes were glued to that Mercedes like it was a UFO. As we climbed the mountain, I started feeling a little sick and asked Dad to pull over. And there it was… a silver Mercedes Gullwing with the driver’s door lifted. I thought, surely, this must be Uncle Martin from My Favorite Martian. First—and last—time I ever saw a spaceship in our local mountains. 😉
May 4, 2026 · 21:28
Of the 16 of these that were auctioned since June of 2025, the low sale was $1.3 million, average sale was $1.9 and the high sale was an astounding $5.2 million American dollars. They have been on a steady climb and show no signs of stopping. In short: Hotter than the hinges of hell! This should be fun! GLWTA! @boaboyoz
@Hoppy18
@Hoppy18
May 4, 2026 · 21:25
@mbzcollector good eye on the engine serial number hope there's an alternate explanation
May 4, 2026 · 21:23
Ages ago - mid 1980s, I took on a commission to find a 280SL for a client. We located a project car in Rochester, NY and after finalizing the purchase drove up to retrieve it. Upon walking into the shop there was a partly restored 300SL Gullwing. I asked about it and was told the owner of the car owed a bunch of money on it and it was available if the shop bill was covered. The shop bill was less than the amount of money we had in hand for the Pagoda. No cell phones in that era and the client who commissioned the 280 was set on owning one. I left the Gullwing with some intention of making an offer in the following weeks. Circa 2,080 weeks have past, I wonder if it's still there and what the shop bill is now.
May 4, 2026 · 21:15
An automotive layman’s tribute to Frank Sinatra. I see that this spectacular automobile is located in Fountain, CA. If I found the Fountain of Youth, I’d go back and do things differently …then perhaps I’d have the opportunity to bid on this gem. “Regrets, I’ve had a few…”
@2FAM, @tlcamg, @a990dna, @Revsome and @HeyNK, perhaps you “wood” too :)
@2FAM, @tlcamg, @a990dna, @Revsome and @HeyNK, perhaps you “wood” too :)
May 4, 2026 · 21:02
Steering wheel is correct for Gullwing. Wondering if the seller can address the serial number stamped in the block. From the photo it looks like the last half of the numbers have been ground off and re-stamped (very poorly).
May 4, 2026 · 20:57
@Leebrayton I'm pretty sure that steering wheel is correct.
May 4, 2026 · 20:51
Is this the original/proper steering wheel? Shouldn’t there be a chrome center ring for activating the turn signals and horn?
May 4, 2026 · 20:49
I would argue this is the best looking car of all time. GLWTA!
May 4, 2026 · 20:48
This is incredible. I mean, the silver examples are really nice, but this beauty in white over red is perfection on wheels! Can’t wait to see where this ends up. GLWTA!!
May 4, 2026 · 20:33
@richard_mcdonell, good question. Last time I pulled this maneuver, it worked out really well for me. I don’t suspect it will this time.
May 4, 2026 · 20:28
Gorgeous Gullwing in classic white with beautiful red leather 👌 … @berfinroy…@luz_do_sol…@chicagogas….@unclefred1…@whipcity76…👍
JJJEEE
Bid
May 4, 2026 · 20:26
Bid in the amount of $501,000
May 4, 2026 · 20:18
Sweet Kenwood, bro! What kind of car is this? Looks old.
May 4, 2026 · 20:17
Had to be the high bidder on a gullwing for once…
Even if for a minute only
Even if for a minute only
EGA
Bid
May 4, 2026 · 20:17
Bid in the amount of $100,000
Fredkoo
Bid
May 4, 2026 · 20:17
Bid in the amount of $1,956
May 4, 2026 · 20:16
Well, would you look at that, is it is a 300SL Gullwing, wearing white over red. The best looking car, ever, in a scrumptious color combo. Amazing, and very, very cool. GLWTA!
Sign In to Comment
Please sign in or create an account to join the auction discussion.