U.S. Mercedes-Benz importer Max Hoffman paved the way for a production version of the sleek and world-beating 300SL race car by challenging Mercedes to build it, and by providing an order for 1,000 units. In 1954, the 300SL road car, with its now-famous “gullwing” doors, was launched in New York City, being the first Mercedes to be introduced outside of Europe. Even with a lofty price over $7,000, Hoffman’s confidence was borne out with 1,400 coupes built over a three-year period. In no time, the iconic marvel became the “it” car for celebrities and captains of industry, as well as off-duty race car drivers.

The 300SL was one of the most technically advanced cars available when it was introduced. Thanks to Mercedes’ manufacture of aircraft engines during World War II, they were well versed in the benefits of fuel injection, and the 300SL became the first production car to feature fuel delivery via direct injection. The light but strong tubular space frame necessitated its legendary and often copied upwards opening doors.

Hoffman saw even greater sales possibilities for a more “user friendly,” open version of the coupe, and therefore, pushed Mercedes to develop the 300SL Roadster, which replaced the coupe in 1957. From the gullwing, the 300SL Roadster retained the best attributes of the coupe: speed, handling prowess, and rock-solid build quality, along with high style. With the space frame chassis modified to provide deeper door openings for greater ease of entry and exit and the natural appeal of open cars in the American market, its success was guaranteed. While still a car for the competitive driver, it was also suited to the boulevard cruiser, as it could effortlessly toggle from race track to opera house.

The styling appeared nearly identical, but, in fact, there were many changes, including the fender profile, headlights, a smaller grille opening, and a chrome trim strip along the sill. While the roadster weighed slightly more than the coupe, due to the chassis strengthening required to compensate for the loss of the roof and the larger door openings, the roadster’s performance level was maintained through increased horsepower derived from the previously optional “sport” camshaft and a higher compression ratio. Although not as aerodynamically efficient as the gullwing, it was still capable of speeds in excess of 150 mph, depending on the final gear ratio, making it one of the world’s fastest road cars.

This wonderful Roadster has been the recipient of a comprehensive restoration by renowned marque and model expert Rudi Koniczek in 2005. Koniczek and Company have prepared 300SLs that have won top awards at concours events worldwide, and they are renowned for the quality and longevity of their work. The beautifully applied DB350 medium blue paint is still brilliantly lustrous, as is the extensive and deeply plated chrome trim. The panel fit is excellent, with even gaps. Inside, the grey leather upholstery is a stunning complement to the exterior color, while the dashboard instruments, control knobs, and bright trim speak to both the quality of the restoration and to the care with which this Mercedes has been treated. Under the hood, the finishes have been reproduced to factory standards and remain so, showing only the traces of proper use and maintenance. Matching grey fitted luggage and a grey canvas soft top, along with a desirable Becker Mexico radio and attractive European model headlights, complete the package.

On a recent drive, an RM representative noted its eager throttle response, confident handling, and throaty exhaust note. All are reasons why 300SL Roadsters are so popular for events, and they would make this example a brilliant partner on any number of 1,000-mile rallies and tours, as proven by its successful completion of the 2010 Copperstate 1000.

The 300SL was certainly a look into the future of high performance road cars, and it raised the bar considerably for its competition. It is no wonder that 300SLs of either variety have become, and remain, one of the core blue-chip collector cars, in addition to their status as one of the all-time design and performance icons of the road. This beautifully presented and ready-to-use example is poised to bring miles of enjoyment to its fortunate new owner.

Titled as 1959.