Presented by Mecum Auctions – An automotive icon, this 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is one of only five examples originally finished in Fantasy Yellow. It has been treated to a concours restoration performed by Legendary Classic Center in Costa Mesa, California. The body has been stripped to bare metal prior to a meticulous deep paint application, and the car features color-matched Rudge wheels with center knock-offs. The chrome and brightwork has been polished and refinished, the drivetrain has been rebuilt to factory specification and a new wiring harness was fitted. The interior is appointed in dark green full leather and is factory correct in both material selection and presentation. It is also equipped with matching green fitted luggage stored in the trunk. Its history purports that it was retained by the factory for promotional purposes and sold to its first owner in 1963.
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL is still recognized 66 years after its debut as one of the most beautiful cars ever built. It was the fastest production car of its time with a factory-rated top speed of 160 MPH. It was an innovative design that reflected forward thinking. The central structure was a space-frame constructed of lightweight alloy—a labyrinth of small-diameter tubing triangulated at strategic points for structural strength.
The engine was a 3.0L straight-6 that was mounted in the chassis at a 50-degree angle to allow for both a low center of gravity as well as a lower sleek hood line. The front-mounted engine was located behind the centerline of the front suspension, creating an ideal front-to-rear weight distribution. It featured an independent front suspension and a semi-independent swing axle arrangement in the rear. Massive drum brakes insured ultimate stopping power. This European specification car comes complete with tools and luggage.
This 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster will be auctioned off during Mecum Auctions’ Monterey 2021 event, which runs August 12 to 14.
