A few years ago, I was given a hot investment tip that I chose to ignore. Well, to be honest, I didn’t choose to ignore it; I simply lacked the necessary funds even to consider it.

But — had I taken the tip and purchased a good, sound 300SL Gullwing — I doubt I’d have regretted the decision for one moment. By all accounts, it would have been an excellent financial investment and, more to the point, ownership would have brought such pleasure. There are, after all, few cars more beautiful, more evocative than the glorious Gullwing. It’s just not the sort of purchase that gives rise to the feeling "Oh, I do wish I’d bought a blah-blah instead."

But hang on a minute. What about a 300SL Roadster? Less of a legend, but more practical and — in some ways — more fun. Take a look at this week’s feature on the Roadster (and browse the 20–odd 300SLs on offer in the Classic Driver Marketplace) and make up your own mind. Drop–top or coupé?

Thank goodness I am in no position to buy either. What a relief.

Charis Whitcombe Associate Editor editor@classicdriver.com

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