The vintage roadster is a two seat sports car that was produced by Mercedes Benz in 1957. The 300 SL was inspired by an American importer who saw a large market for such a vehicle. In order to capture the American market Mercedes unveiled the model four years prior to launch at the International Motor Show in New York in 1954.
The 300 SL borrowed the 2 Valve per cylinder M186 engine from a W186 sedan. The 30 degree diagonal base allowed for a larger intake. The 300 SL gave a top speed of 163 mph with 240 horsepower, thus making it the fastest car of the time.
Keeping in mind both the coupe and roadster variations of the model, a total of 2658 units were produced from 1954 to 1963. During the 1950s and 1960s the 300 SL was one of the most popular cars around the world and had an average sale of 200 models per year after the initial few years of its launch.
Image Source – credit: Goodwood Road & Racing
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