1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing: Same Owner Since 1962 and Retaining its Original Engine

This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is a matching numbers example that's been under the same ownership since 1962. Dark metallic silver with black leather interior. Originally, the car left the factory in DB158 (white grey). It runs and drives well but the older repaint is showing its age at this point. This 300 SL Gullwing was in the hands of one appreciative owner for nearly 57 years. In the earlier years, the previous owner enjoyed the Gullwing as his daily driver. In later years, he would take part in Gullwing Group club events. At some point in the 1970s, he had the Gullwing repainted from its original Weissgrau (White-Gray, DB 158) to its current shade of dark metallic silver. Inside, the instrument panel still presents in its original factory paint finish. The seats and interior panels that received new materials many years ago display an inviting patina. Most important, 5500553 retains its original, matching-numbers engine (5500569), in accordance with its Mercedes-Benz build record.

Today, 300 SL Gullwings and roadsters are a favorite on long-distance tours and rallies due to their durability, reliability, and driving dynamics. This Gullwing would certainly be an eligible and welcome participant on many of the most popular driving events around the world, including the Copperstate 1000, Colorado Grand, and Mille Miglia. Over six decades have passed since the last Gullwing rolled off the Stuttgart assembly line; most have changed hands many times over and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find one that has been with a single caretaker for the majority of its existence. 5500553 is one such car, that has been enjoyed, respected, and maintained for nearly 60 years. As such, this Gullwing has the pedigree to become an heirloom for its next enthusiastic owner.