Some cars flaunt their presence with unique paint shades, others shout with a rumble from their engines, but only a few have the ability to cause a huge stir with neither an ear-shattering exhaust note or a vibrant paintjob. However, the 300 SL pulls it off; a car that showcases Mercedes-Benz at their very best, built during an era where ambition was sky high, and quality was expected, never requested. Born with racing pedigree from the 300 SLR and Alloy racers, values of 300 SLs are climbing with seeming no signs of slowing. Now, thanks to our friends at Axel Schuette, we have the ideal pair to rack up miles from summer to winter, with both sporting sleek white paintwork!
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing
Starting with the Gullwinged car, this 1955 example would have been one of the earlier 300 SLs to roll off the assembly line, promptly being sent from Stuttgart-Untertürkheim to Mercedes-Benz Distribution in New York shortly after its completion. Specified in the elegant shade of ‘White DB50’, the third most popular shade of paintwork for the 300 SL behind red and silver, this 300 SL was fitted with a vibrant red leather interior, making for a stunning combination. These colours allow one to fully appreciate the Gullwing's iconic shape, made even better by the lengthy restoration this example received in 1991 by 300 SL specialist Klaus Kienle.
The talented team would carry out an extensive body-off restoration, bringing this 1950s sports car back to life with meticulous detail and consideration, all while maintaining as many original parts as possible. During the restoration, disc brakes on the front axle and the rudge wheels were added at the customer's request, which not only allow for better drivability, but also change the entire look of the car, turning into more of a period-style racer as well as an elegant cruiser.
1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster
For the drop-top, we fast forward seven years to 1962, when this Papyrusweiß roadster would make its on-road debut. According to the data card from the Mercedes-Benz archive, this car remained in Germany, staying with its first owner in Duisburg until 1979, before taking the short journey to Hamburg. Three years later, it was finally registered to its third owner in the district of Biberach, Germany, as is reflected in the original German documentation, which has remained with the car since it was new. Staying in proximity to its origins, this example has remained in wonderful, original condition thanks to the care of its owners, each one taking it off the road during the winter months.
With the ability to remove its dark green hard top, this Roadster gives way to a whole new driving experience, with this stunning off-white shade working perfectly against the dark green leather interior and matching soft-top. While many would have opted for the more subtle black or navy blue, or perhaps shown off with bright red, the rich emerald shade of the cockpit adds a touch of tranquility and calmness to what is renowned as one of the greatest dashboard layouts ever designed. In November 2007, Klaus Kienle was commissioned to carry out a full restoration of this Roadster, which would take almost three years to complete. Being a later 300 SL, this example came from the factory with disc brakes, as well as the highly-desirable aluminium engine, weighing a whole 70 kilograms lighter than that found in the early cars. Combined with the joys of drop-top driving, the lighter engine should make this stunning Roadster an unforgettable car to drive.
Choosing just one is almost impossible, and in our eyes, the only valid answer would be a two-car solution. Both the Gullwing and Roadster showcase Mercedes-Benz at the pinnacle of their game in terms of design, engineering and performance, allowing everyday drivers the opportunity to experience true race car derived technology during an era where speed was still in its infancy. Whether it's sunshine or showers outside, this pair will bring a smile to your face every time!
