Lot 223: 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300S Roadster

If any automobile of the post-World War II era deserves the description 'classic,' it is the Mercedes-Benz 300. Shortly after the 300's introduction at the Frankfurt show, Mercedes-Benz introduced a very different 300 at the Paris Show - the 300S. Built from 1951 through 1958, elegantly styled in the prewar tradition yet refreshingly up-to-date, the 300 S were traditional in design, built to uncompromising quality standards, and employed the latest materials and technologies to achieve excellent power and minimize weight. It combined a shorter wheelbase of 2,900mm (114.2 inch) with a more powerful multi-carburetor engine and 2-door coachwork in both open and closed styles. The engine delivered 163 (SAE) horsepower at 5,000 rpm and made the 300S an excellent performer. It has been reported that Mercedes factory driver Karl Kling could lap Germany's famous Nurburging Nordschleife faster in the 300S than in any road-going Mercedes since the legendary SSK.The 300S was Mercedes-Benz's recognition of the importance of the high-speed 2-and 4-passenger touring automobile in the tradition of the immortal 540K, yet it was faster, more responsive, more comfortable and more efficient. It was the most exclusive and stylish automobile in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, intended specifically for the discerning clientele who demanded excellent performance, but were unwilling to sacrifice luxury and generous accommodations. Production began in July 1952 and continued through April 1958, a span of nearly six years; yet in that time only 760 units were built, production that is dwarfed even by the 300SL Gullwing and Roadster of which 3,858 were built in a similar time span.Each Mercedes-Benz 300 was essentially custom built, drawing the best craftsmen and artisans from within the vast Mercedes-Benz organization to create luxury automobiles that were as good as any built in the world at the time. Luxuriously finished and trimmed in the highest quality materials, the Mercedes-Benz 300 was fast, comfortable, safe and elegant.The nut and bolt restoration of this Mercedes Benz 300 S Roadster to Pebble Beach standards has taken over 4 years and was finished in April 2006. This magnificent work, finished to the highest standards, is documented by photographs and was executed by classic Mercedes-Benz specialist Klatt. The car is not yet run in but is probably one of the best available worldwide. Finished in Mercedes-Benz metallic silver with red leather interior and black canvas hood, this vehicle will stand any inspection and represents a unique opportunity for a serious collector who only wants the best. This car is described as 'new'. If not better.Cette Mercedes 300 S Roadster eu une restoration de grand standart durant 4 ans qui s'acheva en avril 2006 par le spécialiste Mercedes Benz Klatt. De couleur gris métallique Mercedes avec interieur en cuir rouge, elle représente une excellente oppurtunitée pour un collectioneur d'acquérir un modele unique et parfait. Cette voiture est comme neuve, sinon mieux.