A Rare Piece of Mercedes-Benz History
The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing, chassis number 198.043.5500872, is an extraordinary find among post-war sports cars. As the 26th of just 29 Alloy Gullwings ever produced, this model stands out not only for its rarity but also for its unique history and provenance.
A Storied Past
Completed on January 12, 1956, this Gullwing is notably the only “Alloy” variant originally finished in Black (DB 40) with a striking Red leather interior (1079). It was delivered new to the legendary Luigi Chinetti, a prominent Ferrari importer and Le Mans champion. Chinetti’s choice to purchase this specific car highlights his appreciation for Mercedes-Benz’s engineering excellence and his intention to compare it with his Ferrari stock.
After being refinished in silver during Chinetti’s ownership, the Gullwing was sold to Rudi Klein in August 1976. Despite its high-profile ownership, the car was never driven outside Klein’s collection, preserving its remarkable originality.
Unrestored Originality
The 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing remains largely untouched aside from its paint. It retains its original interior, engine, gearbox, rear axle, steering box, and front spindles. The car has accumulated just 73,387 kilometers (~45,600 miles) and is accompanied by Mercedes-Benz delivery information and fascinating documentation, including the original data card.
This Alloy Gullwing has been stored within the confines of Klein’s collection, making it one of the most genuine examples of its kind. The car’s factory alloy bodywork remains intact, with only minor damage—a dent from a forklift in 1981—evident on the rear.
Engineering Excellence
The 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing was a special competition variant of the standard W198 model, featuring a lightweight alloy body, a more powerful NSL engine, and sportier suspension components. This model was built to cater to privateers and amateur racers, embodying Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to performance and innovation.
Auction Details
Offered without reserve at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction in 2024, this 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing presents a unique opportunity to acquire a highly significant and historically valuable vehicle. With its unmatched provenance and unrestored condition, it is set to be one of the most exciting Mercedes-Benz offerings in decades.
This Alloy Gullwing’s story is a testament to its storied past, exceptional preservation, and the legacy of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess.
Price Estimate: $4,500,000 – $6,000,000 USD | Offered Without Reserve
Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
Source: rmsothebys.com
This Article use tools from Chatgpt
