Mercedes-Benz 300 SL W198 1954 - CMC

This model faithfully recreates the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster fitted with the optional removable hardtop, a sought-after factory accessory that transformed the open-top roadster into an elegant coupé. Just like the original vehicle, the model allows you to display it with either the removable hardtop or the soft-top compartment cover. When removed, the hardtop can be placed on the included display stand. To open the doors, simply pull out the flush-mounted door handles-a design that was remarkably futuristic in the 1950s and has since made a comeback on many modern vehicles.

The model is painted in medium blue metallic, Mercedes-Benz colour number 396, at the end of production only 6 vehicles with this paint had been delivered, That’s about a third of the production. Color diversity was apparently the theme at the time, customers could choose from 99 factory-supplied colors. In view of this, it is no longer surprising that 40 cars are colorfully unique, during the entire production period only a single car was painted in the respective color.

This hand-assembled precision metal model consisting of more than 1, 050 parts representing exceptional craftsmanship with a finely detailed leather and chrome-trimmed interior, folding seats, movable sun visors, an opening dashboard ashtray, removable hubcaps, and retractable door handles, making it a remarkable collector's piece.

History (Original Vehicle):

Unveiled at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) was developed as the successor to the legendary Gullwing following strong demand from U. S. importer Max Hoffman. Featuring a redesigned tubular spaceframe, conventionally hinged doors, improved rear suspension, and from 1961 the first four-wheel disc brakes fitted to a Mercedes-Benz passenger car, it delivered enhanced comfort, practicality, and driving stability without compromising performance. Powered by a 215 hp, 3. 0-litre fuel-injected inline-six engine, the Roadster reached a top speed of 250 km/h, while its elegant open-top design and limited production of just 1, 858 examples between 1957 and 1963 secured its place as one of the defining sports cars of its era and the foundation of the enduring Mercedes-Benz SL legacy.