1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing

There is no more immediately recognizable sight in the collector car world than a Mercedes-Benz 300SL with its doors opened skyward. Created by legendary Mercedes-Benz engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut as the company's first post-war racing car, the 300SL incorporates several excellent components including a 3 liter overhead cam six cylinder engine, a strong cast iron gearbox, and a lightweight independent sing arm rear axel. The impressive height of the car's engine imposed physical constraints that prompted producers to develop several clever solutions. First, the car's strikingly high engine was to be laid on its left side at a 50 degree angle. Second, the chassis was to be customized with high sides in order to maintain strength and accommodate the height of the engine. Finally, the doors could only be hinged at the centerline of the car, a design that would later become the 300SL's visual signature. Dubbed gullwing, these doors resemble the graceful wings of a bird when raised and transform the car into the essence of aerodynamic grace when closed. Arguably the most sophisticated road going sports car of its time, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL's remarkable speed can only be surpassed by it's stunning beauty from every angle.

Specs:

• 215 HSP, Single Overhead Camshaft, 6-Cylinder Inline Engine

• 216 FT-LB Torque

• 4-Speed All-Sychromesh Gearbox

• Limited Slip Differential

• Servo-Assist Finned 4-Wheel Hydraulic Brakes

• 0-60 9 Sec

• Wheelbase: 94.5 Inches

• Top Speed: 165 Mph

• WT: 2,850

• Original Price: $7,030