Now improved, removed all outlines, now with red interior.

Software.......Macromedia Flash MX 2004 Professional.
Time.............08 Hours

On the race track, the 300SL is a symbol of invincibility. This was it's intended function after all, to revive Daimler Benz competition in racing. On the road, the 300SL is one of the most desirable automobiles ever built. Because it was built for racing, the bodyshell was designed for aerodynamic efficiency. As a result, it had flattened flanks, little imagination was applied to the front end, and there was a lack of trim.

Mercedes Benz did not originally want to build the road going version of their famous racecar. A New Yorker named Max Hoffman put in an order for 1000 vehicles and the road going version of the 300SL was born. These first cars had a US sticker price of $6820.00 rising to a final $8902.00 by the end of the production run.

The road going version of the racecar was restyled. Proven on the racetrack, the 300SL engine was extremely reliable. The engine, slanted to the left was neccessary to accomodate the low hood line. Oher changes and refinements included a steel bodyshell with aluminum hood, trunklid, lower rocker panels and doors to save weight. Chromed bumpers were added. The slatted vents on the front fenders were there to allow excess heat from the engine, but also added to the overall styling of the car. As do the "eyebrow" moldings over the wheel well arches. The standard interior consisted of checked cloth fabric similar to that which was used on the racing version. Leather of course was an option, as were fitted leather suitcases. All of the gullwing coupes were built as left hand drive cars.

During the run of the gullwing coupe, 29 all aluminum bodied 300SL's were built for special delivery to racing customers.

Today, a mint example, with low mileage can cost about $232,000.00

1954-1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe - Specifications

Price..................................$ 7,463 new
Production Total..................1,400 built all years (1954-1957); 1,100 exported to United States
Engine...............................3 liter inline-6 with Bosch mechanical fuel injection
Horsepower........................215 @ 5800 rpm
Torque...............................170 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Weight...............................285 4 lbs
Power to Weight Ratio.........13.3 lbs per hp
0-62 mph...........................10 seconds
Top Speed.........................162 (260 Km/h) mph depending on rear axle ratio

Courtesy:
Article: Silver Star Restorations [link]

Specifications: Serious Wheels [link]

Best Wishes
Ahmed Nayyer