1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster

KEY FACTS

• This Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is a restored example of the iconic and highly coveted classic roadster, in its original matching-numbers specification.
• Under the bonnet is a recently rebuilt naturally aspirated 3.0-litre straight-six, sending around 240hp to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission.
• The odometer shows 75,414 miles, which the seller believes to be the true mileage.
• Registered new in the United States in 1960, this example was later imported to the United Kingdom, and was first registered with the DVLA in March 1996.
• It benefited from a comprehensive restoration between 1990 and 1993 under the supervision of renowned SL specialist, John Olson, as well as a recent engine rebuild by Riedling & Mouser which was completed in February 2025 at a cost of around £40,000.
• The car is also noted to have been owned by car collector Lord Irvine Laidlaw.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This 300 SL Roadster was originally specified in Blue Grey (166), the colour in which it was repainted during its 1990s restoration, which is accented by a cream soft-top.
• The uncluttered and elegant cabin is trimmed in a particularly tasteful Light Tan leather, with a cream-coloured ‘Bakelite’ steering wheel and gear knob.
• It sits on a set of 15-inch steel wheels, which are fitted with the correct set of body-coloured hubcaps with chrome outers, and are fitted with Vredestein tyres.
• This 300 SL Roadster also features its original Becker Mexico radio with automatic electric aerial, inertia reel seatbelts, and European specification headlamps.
• It is accompanied by the luxurious option of two fitted Light Tan suitcases,
• Also accompanying the car is a very detailed history file and one original ignition key.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• The vehicle is understood to be exempt from mandatory MOT testing due to its age.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The latest maintenance was carried out in February 2025 by Riedling & Mouser. The work consisted of a full strip down and engine rebuild costing approximately £40,000.
• The engine rebuild work started in August 2023, and was completed in February 2025, and the seller notes that as part of the comprehensive overhaul and service the car was fully inspected, and was detailed and prepared for sale.
• Invoices for the engine rebuild are visible in the image gallery.
• The vehicle was restored to a high standard in the USA in the 1990s, with every detail reportedly completed correctly under the supervision of 300 SL expert, John Olsen.

SUMMARY

A revolutionary vehicle at its launch, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was admired in-period for its bold design and powerful straight-six, which was tuned for the roadster variant to help offset its slight weight increase. Fresh from an extensive engine rebuild costing just shy of £40,000, this rare Mercedes-Benz is now ready to be driven, and would make a head-turning entrant to any car show or event, as well as a stunning centrepiece within a collection.

The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.

Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section.

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