The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is more than just a car; it’s a prophecy realized, a vehicle that redefined automotive design and performance. As Griff Borgeson eloquently stated in Sports Cars Illustrated in 1956, the 300 SL was a “car of the future that can be possessed today,” an unparalleled masterpiece that remains nearly impossible to duplicate at any price. This sentiment still resonates deeply with automotive enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, especially when considering the unique significance of owning “the last” of such an iconic model.
The quest to possess the ultimate collectible, the final example of a prized item, is a pursuit often spanning decades and involving considerable investment. This pursuit intensifies when the item in question is as historically and culturally significant as a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. Often, the most coveted examples are locked away in museums or private collections, making the opportunity to acquire even a Gullwing, let alone “The Last Gullwing,” exceptionally rare.
Hailed as the “sportscar of the century,” the Gullwing Mercedes-Benz 300 SL stands as a beacon of automotive excellence. Its breathtaking aesthetics, groundbreaking engineering, and exhilarating performance have cemented its place as the most significant and widely admired car in Mercedes-Benz’s storied history. The “Last Gullwing,” in particular, carries an unmatched symbolic weight, connecting its owner to the victories, glamour, and sheer greatness embodied by this legendary model.
Alt text: Profile view of a silver Gullwing Mercedes 300 SL showcasing its iconic gullwing doors and sleek design.
Ubiquitous Icon: The Gullwing’s Pervasive Influence
The cultural impact of the 300 SL Gullwing extends far beyond motorsport, largely due to its relatively substantial production run. Between 1954 and 1957, Mercedes-Benz produced 1,400 Gullwings, with many seeing action on racetracks globally. Its distinctive design, dictated by its innovative lightweight spaceframe—derived from the victorious W194 and W196 racing sports cars—made it instantly recognizable.
The roadgoing 300 SL Gullwing became a ubiquitous symbol of speed and style, appearing everywhere from Hollywood films to the scenic roads of Mulholland Drive, and from Parisian boulevards to the Arctic Circle. Unlike many ultra-rare mid-century exotics from Ferrari, BMW, and Jaguar, the Gullwing Mercedes achieved stardom through its relative accessibility and widespread presence.
The 300 SL Gullwing’s close technical and visual kinship with its racing sibling, the 300 SLR, further enhanced its allure. While the Gullwing is often considered the “first supercar,” the 300 SLR, with its lightweight magnesium body and 300-horsepower engine, is arguably the “first hypercar,” capable of speeds exceeding 180 mph. The record-breaking $142 million sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe in 2022 by RM Sotheby’s solidified its position as the most valuable car in history, further amplifying the Gullwing lineage’s prestige.
Beyond the racetrack, the Gullwing Mercedes became a favorite among socialites, business magnates, and movie stars. It represented individuality, with owners able to customize their cars with various color combinations and factory options. This personalization, coupled with its performance and beauty, made the Gullwing a true statement piece.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of a Gullwing Mercedes 300 SL highlighting its elegant lines and iconic Mercedes-Benz grille.
The 300 SL Gullwing’s technological prowess translated into countless victories in prestigious sportscar races and championships. Yet, its remarkable achievement lies in its ability to blend racing pedigree with unparalleled elegance and desirability. It was, and remains, a “spacecraft on four wheels,” symbolizing the pinnacle of automotive aspiration.
“The Last Gullwing”: A Singular Piece of History
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis 7500079, “The Last Gullwing,” marking the end of an era for their most celebrated model. This car began its journey as a special-order Standwagen, showcased at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair before being dispatched to the United States in September 1957.
Interestingly, factory records indicate that “The Last Gullwing” was originally finished in Fire Engine Red with a special-order Crème leather interior. It also featured English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper covers, and wider Kronprinz wheels typically reserved for the 300 SL Roadster, reflecting its extended stay at the factory.
Despite its extraordinary significance, “The Last Gullwing” initially faded into relative obscurity in America. However, it has been cherished by a mere four owners throughout its life, maintaining its factory-correct color scheme and retaining its original chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles. Its rear axle is also believed to be original.
Alt text: Interior detail of a Gullwing Mercedes 300 SL showcasing the luxurious crème leather upholstery and classic dashboard.
After more than 25 years under the care of its most recent custodian, “The Last Gullwing,” beautifully restored, debuted at the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This marked the model’s inaugural entry into this highly exclusive event, where it captivated judges and attendees alike, earning 3rd in Class – a testament to its exceptional restoration quality.
The iconic 300 SL Gullwing has maintained its legendary status for over seven decades because it embodies more than just automotive glamour or racing success. It represents an ideal: the relentless pursuit of perfection. “The Last Gullwing,” as the final embodiment of this ideal, offers an opportunity that transcends mere car ownership. To be associated with this Gullwing is to be linked to the model’s enduring greatness and the legacy of those who contributed to its triumph.
Much like iconic sports memorabilia representing the pinnacle of achievement, “The Last Gullwing” transcends its mechanical nature. Owning the “last” of a defining icon is possessing a tangible piece of history, a symbol of an era’s zenith. The Gullwing Mercedes, and especially “The Last Gullwing,” continues to captivate and inspire, embodying the timeless allure of automotive excellence.
