One to Buy: mega Pearl Green 1963 Mercedes-Benz W198 300 SL Roadster
Very rarely will anything from Resto Mod culture make it onto Supercar Nostalgia as we largely believe in preserving cars as they were in period. However, every once in a while you come across something that has been beautifully restored and subtly enhanced in a way that really make it stand out from the crowd.
That’s what’s currently on offer at the DD Classics showroom in Richmond, London, where one of most exceptional Mercedes-Benz W198 300 SL Roadsters is residing.
During the course of its production life between 1957 and 1963, the 300 SL Roadster benefited from an array of improvements at various times, the most notable of which were four-wheel disc brakes and an aluminium engine block.
As the 13th from last example produced (and one of just 26 to roll off the production line in 1963) DD Classics’ Roadster, chassis 003246, has everything.
Completed on February 25th 1963, chassis 003246 was originally configured in Light Blue over Burgundy leather and dispatched to the Netherlands. More recently, before joining the current owner’s collection in 2017, the car was treated to a concours-quality restoration by leading W198 specialist, Jürgen Kassen in Oerlinghausen, Germany.
As part of the massive restoration, the colour was switched to period correct Pearl Green with matching green upholstery. The car was also enhanced with an improved cooling system and clutch, electric windows, a GPS-equipped Becker Mexico radio and air-conditioning.
It comes with an original Hardtop, a two-piece set of green leather-covered luggage and has covered just 2100km since the completion of its superb restoration.
Reprinted below is DD Classics’ description:
One of only 26 final-year 300 SL Roadsters, this example is the 13th from last produced
A rare model, as one of just 210 late-production cars fitted with Dunlop disc brakes and an aluminium engine block
Expertly restored by Jürgen Kassen in Oerlinghausen, Germany
Presented in period-correct Pearl Green (DB 213) with matching body-colour wheel covers and a sought-after removable hardtop
Features green leather upholstery and a matching two-piece set of fitted green leather luggage
Enhanced during restoration with power windows, a Becker Mexico radio with GPS, and air conditioning
Accompanied by a Mercedes-Benz Classic Certificate, confirming its original build specification
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering dedication to delivering the pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury.
Launched in 1957, the 300 SL Roadster was a remarkable evolution of the iconic 300 SL “Gullwing,” transitioning from a racing heritage to a refined production tourer. This transformation was marked by a series of innovative enhancements that not only improved performance but also elevated the driving experience.
Beginning with a reimagined space frame to accommodate conventional doors, the Roadster featured a sophisticated low-pivot swing axle rear suspension that significantly enhanced handling and ride quality.
The engine output was elevated from the original Gullwing’s 215 horsepower to an impressive 240 horsepower through the integration of a competition camshaft, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Subsequent advancements included the introduction of an electromagnetic shut-off valve in the mixture controller in 1958 to prevent overrun, the implementation of Dunlop disc brakes on all four corners by 1961 for superior stopping power, and, most significantly, the transition from an iron block to a lightweight aluminium engine block, starting with chassis number 003049 in 1962.
Production of the 300 SL Roadster continued into 1963, and this model year is particularly noteworthy, as only 26 examples were produced, making it a rare gem in automotive history.
Chassis number 003246 is one of these final 26 units and proudly holds the distinction of being the 13th-to-last Roadster ever manufactured. Completed on February 25, 1963, this exceptional vehicle was originally dispatched to a Mercedes-Benz distribution agency in the Netherlands and was initially finished in an elegant Light Blue (DB 334) over a luxurious Burgundy leather (DB 202) interior.
Before joining the current owner’s collection in 2017, chassis number 003246 underwent an extensive, concours-quality restoration executed by the highly regarded specialist Jürgen Kassen in Oerlinghausen, Germany.
The restoration process involved a meticulous attention to detail, bringing the car back to life in a stunning period-correct Pearl Green (DB 213) exterior that beautifully complements its rich heritage. The interior was expertly retrimmed in matching green leather, ensuring authenticity while providing modern comfort and style.
As part of this monumental restoration, the Roadster received numerous mechanical upgrades and modern conveniences designed to enhance its drivability without compromising its classic character.
Noteworthy enhancements include an improved cooling system, a diaphragm spring clutch for a more responsive feel, power windows for added convenience, a Becker Mexico radio equipped with GPS for contemporary navigation, and a climate control system that provides comfort on any journey.
Additionally, this Roadster features a highly sought-after removable hardtop, allowing for an open-air driving experience while maintaining the elegance of its coupe silhouette.
To further complement its unique specification, the Roadster comes with Pearl Green wheel covers and a custom two-piece set of green leather-covered fitted luggage, perfectly tailored to fit in the spacious luggage compartment and adding a touch of sophistication to any road trip.
Chassis number 003246 is not just another 300 SL Roadster; it is one of the last examples to roll off the assembly line at the legendary Sindelfingen factory. With fewer than 2,100 kilometers (approximately 1,300 miles) travelled since the completion of its exquisite restoration, this disc-brake, aluminium-block 300 SL Roadster is poised to offer its next owner an unparalleled opportunity to experience the height of automotive craftsmanship and performance.
Accompanied by its Mercedes-Benz Classic Certificate, which confirms its original build specifications, this stunning Roadster embodies the spirit of the 300SL legacy—where racing innovation meets luxurious touring.
In summary, this 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster represents not only a milestone in automotive history but also a luxurious driving experience that combines performance, elegance, and exclusivity. For the discerning collector or enthusiast, this rare and meticulously restored example is a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive heritage that continues to captivate and inspire.
