The quote by Griff Borgeson from Sports Cars Illustrated in 1956 perfectly encapsulates the revolutionary impact of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL: “The 300 SL is prophecy incarnate. It’s a pace-setter, a style-setter, a design conception that is bound to influence the world’s automotive industry for many years to come… Literally, the 300 SL is a car of the future that can be possessed today…it’s just about impossible to duplicate what the 300SL has to offer at any price.” This wasn’t just a car; it was a statement, a glimpse into the future of automotive design and performance. For collectors of vintage automobiles, owning a piece of history, especially the “last” of an iconic model, represents an unparalleled achievement. These prized possessions, often the culmination of years of searching and significant investment, offer a unique connection to the past. The Mercedes Gullwing, a vehicle that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide, perfectly embodies this allure.
Hailed as the “sportscar of the century,” the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing transcends mere transportation; it is a symbol of automotive excellence. Its breathtaking aesthetics, cutting-edge engineering, and exhilarating performance have cemented its place as the most significant and admired vehicle in Mercedes-Benz’s illustrious history. The opportunity to own a Mercedes Gullwing, particularly one with a unique history like “The Last Gullwing,” is not just about acquiring a car, it’s about inheriting a legacy of victory, glamour, and automotive greatness.
The Widespread Impact of the Mercedes Gullwing
The Mercedes Gullwing’s influence on 20th-century culture extends far beyond the realm of motorsport. Produced in relatively significant numbers between 1954 and 1957, with 1,400 examples rolling off the production line, the Gullwing achieved a remarkable level of visibility. While many were indeed pushed to their limits on racetracks globally, the road-going 300 SL Gullwing became a ubiquitous symbol of style and sophistication.
Its distinctive design, dictated by the innovative lightweight spaceframe chassis derived from the victorious W194 and W196 racing cars of the early 1950s, made the Mercedes Gullwing instantly recognizable. From appearances on the silver screen to cruising down iconic streets like Mulholland Drive and the Champs-Élysées, the Gullwing was omnipresent. It graced motor show halls and claimed victory on race circuits, achieving a level of widespread recognition rarely seen among mid-century exotic cars. Unlike contemporaries such as the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, BMW 507, Lamborghini Miura, and Jaguar XKSS, the Mercedes Gullwing was celebrated for its accessibility and ubiquity within the elite circles it frequented.
The Mercedes Gullwing also benefited from its close relationship to its racing sibling, the 300 SLR race car of 1955. Often considered the “first supercar,” the production Gullwing’s 3.0-liter engine and advanced engineering were directly linked to the SLR, which, with its lightweight magnesium body and 300 horsepower engine, could justifiably be called the “first hypercar,” achieving speeds exceeding 180 mph. In 2022, the sale of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe by RM Sotheby’s for a record-breaking $142 million solidified its position as the most valuable car in history, further enhancing the Gullwing’s legendary status.
Beyond its sporting achievements, the Mercedes Gullwing became synonymous with glamour and celebrity. It was the car of choice for socialites, business magnates, Hollywood stars, and royalty. The 300 SL Gullwing was also a canvas for personal expression, offering owners a wide array of color combinations and factory options to create a truly unique vehicle.
The Mercedes Gullwing’s technological prowess translated into numerous victories in prestigious sportscar races and championships. However, what truly sets the Gullwing apart is its ability to combine racing pedigree with unparalleled elegance and desirability. It was, and remains, a “spacecraft on four wheels,” a symbol of automotive innovation and timeless design.
“The Last Gullwing”: A Unique Piece of Automotive History
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis number 7500079, “The Last Gullwing,” marking the end of an era for their most celebrated model. This particular Mercedes Gullwing began its journey as a Standwagen, a special-order car intended for exhibition. It was first displayed at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair before being dispatched to the United States Mercedes-Benz distribution network on September 27, 1957. While its exhibition appearances between the Poznan Fair’s conclusion in late June and its shipment to America remain undocumented, it is known that by the time “The Last Gullwing” was released from its show duties, the factory had already commenced production of its successor, the 300 SL Roadster.
Intriguingly, factory records indicate that “The Last Gullwing” was originally specified in Fire Engine Red (DB 534) with a special-order full Crème leather interior (1060), English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper covers, and, owing to its extended factory stay, the wider 15 x 5½ -inch Kronprinz wheels typically reserved for the 300 SL Roadster.
Despite its significant status and unique history, “The Last Gullwing” spent its early years in America relatively unheralded. However, this exceptionally original and correct example has been cherished by a select lineage of just four owners throughout its life. Retaining its factory-correct color scheme and numbers-matching chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles, “The Last Gullwing” is a testament to preservation. Even its rear axle, while recorded as “324” on data cards but stamped 7500024, is believed to be original.
After more than 25 years under the devoted care of its most recent custodian, “The Last Gullwing” emerged beautifully restored. Its meticulous restoration culminated in an invitation to the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, marking the first time a Mercedes Gullwing was accepted into this highly exclusive event. The judges and attendees were captivated by chassis 7500079, awarding it 3rd in Class – a remarkable debut and a tribute to the quality of its restoration.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing’s enduring appeal, even after seven decades, stems from its embodiment of ideals beyond mere automotive excellence. It represents Hollywood glamour, motorsport triumph, and timeless beauty. “The Last Gullwing,” with its unrivaled provenance as the final example of this iconic model, offers an ownership experience that transcends the acquisition of a car. To be seen in this Mercedes Gullwing is to be associated with the car’s inherent greatness and the legacy of those who contributed to its legendary status.
Owning “The Last Gullwing” is akin to possessing Michael Jordan’s final game-worn jersey, Babe Ruth’s last home run ball, or Picasso’s ultimate masterpiece. It transcends its mechanical nature to become a tangible piece of history, representing the culmination of an era and the enduring allure of the Mercedes Gullwing.
