Did this Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster just roll off the assembly line?

Axel Schuette is renowned for their collection of exceptional automobiles, and this meticulously restored 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster stands as a testament to their discerning taste and commitment to automotive excellence.

 

 

The perennial debate between coupe and cabriolet has long captivated car enthusiasts, each option boasting its own allure. While coupes exude sleek silhouettes and precise handling, convertibles tempt with boundless headroom and a symphony of engine notes. In the case of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the choice is particularly challenging. While the gullwing coupe boasts undeniable charisma, the Roadster variant, exemplified by this stunning 1957 model presented by Axel Schuette, epitomizes open-air motoring at its finest. It’s a car that beckons to be driven with the top down, embracing the exhilarating freedom of the open road.

 

Resplendent in White-Grey, this 1957 300 SL Roadster represents the pinnacle of its breed, crafted in the model’s inaugural year of production for its original owner in the USA. Among the dwindling pool of genuine numbers-matching examples, this Roadster’s untouched lineage captured Axel Schuette’s attention. Not a single vital component had been replaced throughout its existence, rendering it an ideal candidate for an exhaustive body-off restoration, meticulously undertaken by esteemed 300 SL specialist Jürgen Kassen beginning in December 2013. Every facet of the restoration was meticulously documented, evidenced by a comprehensive dossier of invoices and over 3000 detailed photographs, attesting to the caliber of craftsmanship lavished upon it.

 

 

The restoration endeavor commanded an investment exceeding 422,000 euros, resulting in a pristine masterpiece that has since been driven sparingly, covering a mere 1,400 kilometers. Its flawless paintwork and impeccably re-trimmed original-specification red leather interior evoke the essence of a brand-new vehicle, affirming its status as one of the finest examples available. For enthusiasts yearning to relish the timeless allure of a Mercedes-Benz classic without the apprehension often associated with unrestored relics, this exquisite 300 SL Roadster presents an irresistible opportunity not to be missed.