MERCEDES BENZ 300SL ROADSTER

Country of Manufacture: Germany
Vin #: 198.042-10-003160
Model Type: 2 Door Convertible
Body Designer: Karl Wilfert
Engine: In line 6 cylinder (2966cc), overhead valve and cam
Horsepower: 240 bhp
Torque: 213 lb at 4500 rpm
Transmission: 4-Speed gearbox
Suspension:
Front- Independent, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers
Rear- Independent, DB single joint swing axle with low pivot, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers
Brakes:
Front- Dunlop discs beginning with chassis # 2780 in 1961
Rear- Dunlop discs
Top Speed: 155 mph with 3.89 to 1 rear axle

History: Developed from the 300SL Gullwing, which, in turn, was a street version of the famous 300SL race cars of the early fifties, the Roadster was primarily developed at the request of Max Hoffman, the US importer. While both the Gullwing and Roadster versions essentially had the same tubular chassis of the racecars, the roadster’s was modified somewhat to accommodate regular doors and greater trunk space. The roadster replaced the Gullwing in 1957 and was built through 1963 when the less sophisticated, volume production 230SL replaced it.

Production: After building 1400 Gullwing's, the factory went on to build a total of 1858 Roadsters. The most significant changes over the 7-year production period were the addition of disc brakes in 1961 (chassis # 2780) and the introduction of the alloy block in 1962 for the last 209 cars beginning with chassis # 3049. Prior to its purchase in 1999, this car resided in Fresno with one owner from new. It is in the most desirable configuration with 2 tops, tonneau cover, disc brakes and alloy engine block.

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