- Chassis # 198.040.5500733
- Engine # 198.980.5500779
- Body # 198.040.5500712
We are delighted to offer this beautiful 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL “Gullwing” for sale. Completed to special order by the Mercedes-Benz works in September of 1955, chassis 5500733 was originally finished in white (DB 50 G) over red leather (1079) and delivered new via Max Hoffman’s New York distributorship. In the spring of 1978, George Harrison of Arizona sold 5500733 to Harvey F. Wilson, a California based collector and restorer. Mr. Wilson kept and cherished the Gullwing as the focal point of his collection for the next five decades, until his recent passing.5500733 retains its matching number engine and all original bodywork. The gearbox is a replacement unit of the correct type. Nicely presented in the classic Gullwing livery of silver over red leather and Ulster tartan interior, our car benefits from a long and unbroken history of careful maintenance throughout the late Mr. Wilson’s ownership, meaning the car is an excellent driver with superb road presence. The engine fires easily, idles smoothly and pulls strongly. The transmission shifts perfectly and the car runs cool on extended drives, making it an ideal touring car.
An older repaint and color change to silver (from the original white) is now starting to show its age. Although the car could certainly be driven and enjoyed in its current state, a high quality repaint and the installation of new rubber seals would put the car in superb overall condition. Having spent most of its life in Arizona and California, there are absolutely no rust issues to contend with. We have included detailed photographs below of all flaws in the paintwork.
Original details include the ivory colored steering wheel and shift knob and a Blaupunkt AM radio. The VDO gauges have well preserved original faces behind excellent clear glass lenses, and the chrome switches and controls are in fine order.
The fabulous fuel injected 2,996 cc inline-six sits in a tidy and properly detailed engine bay, with factory correct finishes evident throughout. Records on file show the engine was completely rebuilt in 2007 by the respected marque specialist Steve Marx of Marx Mercedes Service. At the same time, Marx rebuilt the gearbox and replaced the clutch, overhauled the injection pump, rebuilt the brakes and replaced various bushings and other items.
Chassis 5500733 represents a rare opportunity to acquire a cherished Gullwing coupe in marvelous condition. Eligible for the world’s premier motoring events, this 300SL is rich with character and beckons the next driver to the open road.
Sale Pending
Inspections and accompanied test drives welcome. Sold as is, where is with no warranty of any kind offered by the seller. Clear, unencumbered title conveys.
Interested parties please contact [email protected] or at (512) 288 8800
