Take a trip into the past with the 1957 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing which is an absolute emblem of breathtaking allure and even more stunning performance specs. The car model is a continuation of Mercedes-Benz’s success story that actually started in 1954. The first Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was a coupe which debuted in February 1954 at the Motor Sports Show held in New York. Speaking of formation, the Mercedes 300SL (W198) sports a coupe and Roadster style. The latter was launched in 1957. Numerous innovations which were introduced in this car were enough to take away the breath of anyone at that time. Here’s how Mercedes 300SL Gullwing managed to be a star of past and present:
1957 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Exterior: Space-frame:
The most stunning highlight of this everlasting masterpiece lied in its Lightweight Space-frame. Exuding elegance and superiority, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was definitely designed to take away the breath of every viewer. The major advantage of this innovative Space-frame can be identified from the fact that the design supported car engine without the need of adding conventional doors. The conventional doors were replaced by elegantly opening Gullwing doors. The transmission and axles were the main entities which only supported the up-swinging Gullwing doors as they left no room for traditional doors. As a result of its lightweight Space-frame, Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was able to win over all other vehicles in terms of speed and performance.
1957 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Interior: Graceful:
From outside all the way to inside, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing was a car of dreams. At first glance, the interior reveals a standard fabric seat which could be availed in a choice of three patterns. Speaking of framework paint, the common choice was silver; however, the red, black and dark blue colors could also be opted for. Although it was hard for drivers to get inside the car, they could enjoy an exceptionally ergonomic sitting once inside the cockpit. The perfectly distanced steering wheel and a nip-and-tuck instrument panel made Mercedes 300SL Gullwing very much a driver’s car.
1957 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing performance: the Fastest car of its time
During the fifties, there was no match for Mercedes 300SL Gullwing when the question of speed was under consideration. The forty-five degree located engine was a breathtaking piece of amazing acceleration. The 3.0L engine allowed direct injection of fuel and helped in lowering the hood line. Maximum power of 156 kW (215hp) could be generated to reach a top speed of 260 km/h.
Safety Features:
Apart from the major innovations introduced in the body design of Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, the car offered exceptional safety features. In the body design, several tubes were interconnected and the engine had to be placed at a 45-degree angle. As a result, the lightweight introduced in the car helped in reducing air friction. Quick braking system and four-stroke driving assisted the drivers in maintaining fair levels of control over the steering even at high speeds.
Price:
Being an antique masterpiece, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing is always found in great condition in the possession of dedicated owners who make no mistake in estimating the value of this invaluable car. It has been exhibited in several museums and has been passed from owner to the other during various auctions. Currently, the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing can be bought at a minimum price of $1,000,000.