“The 300 SL is prophecy incarnate. It’s a pace-setter, a style-setter, a design conception that is bound to influence the world’s automotive industry for many years to come… Literally, the 300 SL is a car of the future that can be possessed today…it’s just about impossible to duplicate what the 300SL has to offer at any price.”
—Griff Borgeson, Sports Cars Illustrated, April 1956
To own the final piece of a coveted collection is to hold something truly unique. In the world of vintage automobiles, acquiring the last of a celebrated model is an extraordinary feat, often pursued over decades with considerable investment. While many ultimate collectibles reside in museums or private archives, the chance to possess the “last” of an iconic sports car, like the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a significant piece of automotive history. The Mercedes 300sl Gullwing, hailed as the “sportscar of the century,” is celebrated for its breathtaking design, pioneering engineering, and exceptional performance, making it a standout among classic sports cars and arguably the most important vehicle in Mercedes-Benz’s prestigious history. This article explores the enduring legacy of the Mercedes 300SL, culminating in the unique significance of “The Last Gullwing.”
The Enduring Legacy of the 300 SL Gullwing
The Mercedes 300SL Gullwing’s impact extended far beyond the racetrack, permeating 20th-century culture thanks to its relatively substantial production run. Between 1954 and 1957, Mercedes-Benz produced 1,400 Gullwing examples, with many seeing competitive action globally. Instantly recognizable due to its striking and unconventional gullwing doors, a design dictated by its lightweight spaceframe derived from the victorious W194 and W196 racing sports cars of 1952 and 1954, the road-going 300 SL Gullwing achieved remarkable ubiquity. From Hollywood screens to European boulevards, it was a constant presence, equally at home in motor show halls and winner’s circles. Unlike many exclusive mid-century exotics from Ferrari, BMW, Lamborghini, and Jaguar, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was both exclusive and surprisingly accessible in its visibility and cultural impact.
The 300SL also benefited from its close relationship to the 300 SLR racing sports car of 1955. Often considered the “first supercar,” the production Gullwing’s 3.0-liter engine was closely related to the SLR, which itself is often dubbed the “first hypercar.” The 300 SLR, boasting an ultra-lightweight magnesium body and a 300-horsepower engine, reached unprecedented speeds exceeding 180 mph. In a testament to its unparalleled value, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was sold by RM Sotheby’s in 2022 for a record-breaking $142 million, solidifying its status as the most valuable car ever sold. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, in its own right, became a symbol of automotive excellence and innovation.
A Symbol of Glamour and Performance
Beyond its racing pedigree, the Mercedes 300SL became synonymous with glamour and high society. Frequently featured in entertainment media, it was the car of choice for socialites, business magnates, movie stars, and royalty. The 300SL was also a platform for personal expression, offering owners a wide array of color combinations and factory options. Its technologically advanced engineering translated to numerous victories in prestigious sports car races and rallies, further cementing its performance credentials. Yet, what truly distinguishes the Gullwing is its ability to blend these sporting achievements with an aura of elegance and desirability, often described as “a spacecraft on four wheels.” The Mercedes 300 SL represented the pinnacle of automotive design and engineering of its era.
The Last Gullwing: A Unique Piece of History
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis 7500079, “The Last Gullwing,” marking the end of an era for their most celebrated model. This particular Mercedes 300SL, designated as a special-order Standwagen, was initially displayed at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair. Subsequently, on September 27, 1957, it was integrated into the Mercedes-Benz distribution network in the United States. While details of any exhibitions between the Poznan Fair’s conclusion on June 29th and its American dispatch remain undocumented, by the time “The Last Gullwing” concluded its show duties, the factory had already commenced production of its successor, the 300 SL Roadster.
Intriguingly, factory records indicate “The Last Gullwing” was originally finished in Fire Engine Red with a custom Crème leather interior, English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper covers, and wider Kronprinz wheels typically reserved for the 300 SL Roadster, reflecting its extended factory presence. Despite its profound significance, this remarkably unique and authentic Mercedes 300SL initially experienced relative obscurity in America. However, it has since enjoyed a fortunate existence, cherished by only four recorded owners. “The Last Gullwing” retains its original factory color scheme and matching chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles. Its rear axle is also believed to be original.
After being under the care of its most recent private owner for over 25 years, “The Last Gullwing” underwent a meticulous restoration and made its debut at the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, marking the model’s inaugural entry into this exclusive event. It was awarded 3rd in Class, a testament to the quality of its restoration and inherent appeal. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, especially “The Last Gullwing,” transcends its status as just a car; it embodies the pursuit of automotive perfection.
Conclusion
The Mercedes 300SL Gullwing has maintained its iconic status for over seven decades, representing not just Hollywood glamour and motorsport victories, but an ideal of automotive excellence. “The Last Gullwing” offers more than mere ownership; it provides an association with the greatness of the model and the achievements it represents. Like Michael Jordan’s final game jersey or Babe Ruth’s last home run ball, “The Last Gullwing” transcends its mechanical nature, offering a tangible link to history. To possess the “last” of a model that defined an era is to hold a truly irreplaceable piece of automotive heritage, a testament to the enduring allure of the Mercedes 300SL.
