When Mercedes-Benz introduced their 300 SL Roadster in 1957, the new model addressed many of the perceived shortcomings of the outgoing 300 SL Gullwing Coupe. Primarily, a redesign of the Gullwing’s tube frame allowed for the use of conventional doors, which improved the ease of ingress and egress. This refinement also allowed for the implementation of standard wind-up windows, significantly improving cabin comfort.

Further, the unforgiving high-pivot swing-axle geometry of the Gullwing Coupe was discarded in favor of a low-pivot swing-axle rear suspension, which redressed concerns of oversteer at high speeds. The frame and suspension redesign also facilitated the installation of softer coil springs, which provided the Roadsters with a more comfortable ride without compromising handling. The highly developed inline-six engine was standard-equipped with the sport camshaft that had been so effective in the racing alloy-bodied coupes, thereby significantly increasing the new model’s horsepower.

Never one to rest on its laurels, Mercedes-Benz continued to update their iconic super-leicht with nearly 40 mechanical, structural, and cosmetic improvements between 1957 and 1963. In 1961, four-wheel disc brakes became standard equipment, improving the 300 SL Roadster’s stopping capabilities and thereby bringing the model in line with concurrent mechanical advancements at Ferrari. A year later, the engines were updated with aluminum alloy blocks, helping to minimize weight. Just 210 Roadsters were reportedly factory-equipped with disc brakes and alloy engine blocks, making these cars the apogee of 300 SL development. This is ably illustrated by the very late, and very special, 1963 300 SL Roadster offered here.

This superb 300 SL Roadster, chassis 3252 was completed by Mercedes-Benz on 11 April 1963. It is the seventh-to-last example of this model produced, and one of only 26 examples of the model to have left Untertürkheim during the entire 1963 model year. A copy of its factory data card shows that this disc-brake, alloy-block super-leicht was specially ordered with Ivory (DB 608) paint alongside a contrasting black (40G) hardtop, black soft top, and red leather upholstery. Interestingly, chassis 3252’s data card also notes “additional special features” (code 998), which unfortunately remain undescribed as the specific details were included on the car’s Lieferschein and order documents, of which the Mercedes-Benz archives do not retain a copy.

Delivered new to Italy, it was reportedly treated to a “factory rebuild” while under the care of an Italian owner around 1976, and to this end chassis 3252 still presents as a European-specification super-leicht complete with a metric speedometer, color-matched wheel covers, Vredestein tires, and the ever-desirable European-type headlamps.

Close inspection of chassis 3252’s engine reveals that it retains a correct-type aluminum “M198 III” block, which is likely a factory replacement, as it is fitted with the number plate of its original unit (0221) while the block itself is unstamped. Interestingly, the engine is stamped 27 February 1973, which lends solid evidence to the registry entries which note the work furnished to the car in Europe during the mid-1970s. Mercedes-Benz Classic Center has confirmed that the type 198.982 alloy blocks were frequently changed because of an incompatibility with over-sized pistons. Rather than rebuild blocks to accommodate these pistons, the alloy blocks were often swapped out with factory replacement units. As a result, it is uncommon to encounter an original block on the alloy-engine Roadsters.

Now presented in the color combination of Fire Engine Red (DB 534) over Natural leather upholstery and a matching roadster soft top, this formidable late-production 300 SL was later imported to the United States during the early 1980s and since then has remained close to the New York City area amongst a short chain of noted 300 SL enthusiasts. It also currently bears an additional update supplied by one of these owners in the form of its aftermarket audio system. While retaining its numbers-matching chassis, body, and gearbox, a notation on 3252’s numbers-matching rear axle case indicates that the original contents (3.64 ratio) have been replaced or modified in favor of a 3.23 ratio gear set.

Hailed as one of the greatest open sports cars of all time, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster stands as a testament to one of motoring’s most glamorous periods. Boasting wonderful performance and reliable enough to be enjoyed daily, the 300 SL Roadster is an enthusiast favorite for vintage rallies, long-distance touring, or even regular use at one’s summer home. Boasting all factory upgrades furnished to the model during the twilight of its production run, this extremely late-production 300 SL Roadster bears all the marks of a significant super-leicht.