“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.”
—Griff Borgeson, Sports Cars Illustrated, April 1956
To possess the definitive last example of a coveted collectible is to hold something truly unique. In the realm of vintage automobiles, the pursuit of such a final piece can become a decades-long endeavor, often involving significant investment. These ultimate examples are rarely available, frequently residing in museums or private collections, shielded from public reach. The chance to own the “last” of an iconic model, particularly a sports car as revered as the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, represents an unparalleled opportunity.
Acclaimed as the “sportscar of the century,” the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing transcends mere automotive engineering. It’s a symphony of breathtaking design, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance. Even amongst the pantheon of iconic sports cars, the Gullwing stands apart. It remains, indisputably, the most celebrated and admired vehicle in Mercedes-Benz’s storied history.
The allure of the “Last Gullwing” is more than just its final production number; it’s a symbolic link to the car’s unparalleled legacy. Owning it connects you to every triumph, every moment of glamour, and every achievement associated with this remarkable model.
UBIQUITOUS ICON: EVERYWHERE, ALL AT ONCE
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing’s cultural resonance in the 20th century extends far beyond motorsport, largely due to its significant production run. Between 1954 and 1957, Mercedes-Benz produced 1,400 Gullwings, with many actively participating in races worldwide.
Its distinctive design, dictated by its lightweight spaceframe—a direct descendant of the dominant W194 and W196 racing sports cars of the early 1950s—made the road-going 300SL Gullwing instantly recognizable. It permeated popular culture, appearing in films, gracing celebrity drives from Hollywood to European boulevards, and transitioning seamlessly from concours lawns to gritty race tracks. In contrast to other highly sought-after mid-century exotics from Ferrari, BMW, Lamborghini, and Jaguar, the 300SL Gullwing achieved a remarkable level of visibility and presence.
Alt text: Classic Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing in silver showcasing its iconic gullwing doors and sleek design.
The 300SL’s close kinship with its racing sibling, the 300 SLR of 1955, further amplified its appeal. Often considered the “first supercar,” the production Gullwing’s 3.0-liter SLR cousin could rightfully be called the “first hypercar.” With its lightweight magnesium body and 300 horsepower engine, the 300 SLR achieved unprecedented speeds exceeding 180 mph. This lineage culminated in 2022 when RM Sotheby’s sold the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe for an astounding $142 million on behalf of Mercedes-Benz, solidifying its status as the most valuable car ever sold.
Beyond the sports pages, the 300SL Gullwing frequently appeared in entertainment news, becoming synonymous with socialites, business magnates, movie stars, and royalty. The 300SL was also a canvas for personalization, offering owners a wide array of color combinations and factory options to express their individuality.
The 300SL’s advanced engineering and racing pedigree resulted in countless victories in prestigious sports car races and numerous amateur championships. Yet, its most remarkable achievement was blending this sporting prowess with unparalleled elegance and desirability. It was, and remains, a “spacecraft on four wheels.”
THE LAST GULLWING: A UNIQUE PIECE OF HISTORY
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis 7500079, the final 300SL Gullwing, marking the end of an era for their most significant model. Its legendary status has remained unchallenged since.
“The Last Gullwing,” chassis number 7500079, began its journey as a special-order Standwagen. It was initially displayed at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair before being integrated into the US Mercedes-Benz distribution network on September 27, 1957. While specific details of its appearances between the Poznan Fair’s conclusion on June 29th and its shipment to America remain undocumented, it’s known that by the time 7500079 was released from promotional duties, the Mercedes-Benz factory had already commenced production of the 300SL Roadster successor.
Intriguingly, factory records indicate “The Last Gullwing” was originally specified in Fire Engine Red (DB 534) with a bespoke Crème leather interior (1060), English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper guards, and, owing to its extended factory stay, the wider 15 x 5½ -inch Kronprinz wheels typically reserved for the 300SL Roadster.
Alt text: Vibrant red Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing parked along a scenic coastal road, highlighting its flowing lines and iconic silhouette.
Despite its extraordinary significance, “The Last Gullwing” initially experienced a period of relative obscurity in America. However, this exceptionally rare and authentically preserved vehicle has enjoyed a fortunate existence, cherished by only four owners from new. It retains its original factory-correct color combination and matching chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles. The rear axle, numbered 7500024, is also believed to be original, although factory records note it as “324.”
After more than 25 years under its most recent private owner, “The Last Gullwing” emerged, beautifully restored. Its debut at the 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance marked the model’s inaugural entry into this prestigious event. Judges and attendees alike lauded 7500079, awarding it 3rd in Class—a remarkable achievement and testament to the restoration’s quality.
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing’s enduring seven-decade limelight isn’t solely based on Hollywood glamour, motorsport victories, or fleeting novelty. It embodies a timeless ideal: the pursuit of perfection.
“The Last Gullwing,” unparalleled in provenance as the final example of the super-leicht, offers an opportunity beyond mere ownership. To be seen in this Gullwing is to be associated with the car’s inherent greatness and the legacy of those who contributed to its remarkable success.
Like Michael Jordan’s last game jersey or Babe Ruth’s final home run ball, “The Last Gullwing” transcends its mechanical nature, representing a piece of history itself. Owning the “last” of a defining icon is to possess a tangible link to a legendary era.
