Used 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL for sale in San Diego, CA

To be offered at Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale Arizona 2019 January 17th Please refer to Bidding Department for details or send us a email. at sales@pmautso.com Chassis No. 198.040.5500548 Engine No. 198.980.5500575 Body No. 198.040.5500529 The car offered here is recorded in both the Gull Wing Group and Eric LeMoine 300 SL Registers as having been completed on July 27, 1955, finished in Ivory (DB 608) with a Red leather (1079) interior. Unlike the majority of U.S.-delivery Gullwings, which were imported through Max Hoffman in New York City, this car was sent west as a special order through the distributor in Los Angeles. A subsequent long-term owner included Ottmar Thomas of Visalia, California. He owned the car from 1972 until 1990 when the Gullwing was acquired by Paul Russell & Company. It was later purchased by the well-known racing driver and Mercedes-Benz restorer Lothar Motsenbacher. Before joining the collection of its present owner some years ago, the car was repainted the famous Mercedes-Benz Silver (DB 180), a finish that it still wears today. Aside from that older repaint the car appears very original and surviving in its beautiful patina. The car over all is correct and honest, without the overdone polish of many restored examples. The heritage and flavor of this 300 GullWing speaks volumes for itself and how the car was maintained by its previous owners. The interior is as worn-in and welcoming as one could wish for in Original Mercedes Condition. Carpeting behind the rear seats has been replaced, but the original white steering wheel shows wonderful patina. Giving insight to the enjoyment of driving this car must have brought to the owners. Restored 300 SL Gullwings dominate today's market, and can be found priced as high as 2-3 Million. There is something to be said, however, for an automobile that has been selectively refinished only as necessary!! Preserving so much of its original authenticity and character reminds the connoisseur of what once was, the Gullwings of the “enthusiast era” in the 1960s and 1970s when they were all broken-in, simple and dependable. Many people believe this brings much more joy of ownership to drive and experience on the road instead of a show field. The car offered is one such example, and it awaits a new owner to enjoy it as-is, with all of its considerable charm intact. Born anew this car is hands down is one exciting car, that can be owned at a fraction of the cost of a mint frame off example. Call David Young 619-451-2130 cell or 619-515-2220 office