A legend has been reborn, or rather, re-valued. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, already an automotive icon, has solidified its place in history with a record-breaking auction sale. At the recent RM Sotheby’s Scottsdale auction, an exceptionally rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing fetched an astounding $6.8 million, establishing a new benchmark for this coveted model.
While pre-auction estimates anticipated bids reaching between $7 million and $9 million, the final sale price triumphantly surpassed the previous record. This prized coupe now stands as the most valuable 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing ever sold, eclipsing the $4.2 million achieved by another ‘55 Alloy Gullwing at Gooding & Company’s Scottsdale auction in 2012. This sale underscores the enduring appeal and escalating value of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, particularly the rare alloy variant.
The Pedigree of a Champion: Unveiling the “Weckerlé Alloy”
The staggering price is justified when considering the unparalleled pedigree and provenance of this particular vehicle. Chassis number 5500332, affectionately known as the “Weckerlé Alloy,” is not just any 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. It is one of a mere 24 examples crafted with lightweight aluminum alloy bodies in 1955. This elite group represents the zenith of 300SL production, making them among the most sought-after and rarest production cars ever conceived. For discerning collectors, owning a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Alloy is akin to possessing a piece of automotive mythology.
Adding to its allure, this specific “Weckerlé Alloy” retains its original, numbers-matching heart – a potent 3.0-liter NSL inline-6 engine. Beyond the engine, its originality extends to the high-speed 3.42 rear axle, front spindles, and distinctive Rudge wheels. Crucially, it proudly wears its authentic alloy body and factory-correct livery, preserving its historical integrity and enhancing its desirability among purists and collectors of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing.
Meticulous Restoration: Preserving a Legacy
The “Weckerlé Alloy” underwent a meticulous restoration by the renowned Paul Russell & Company, completed in late 1979. This wasn’t merely a refresh; it was a comprehensive rejuvenation. The restoration encompassed the body and all mechanical components, bringing the car back to its original glory. Demonstrating an eye for detail and luxury, the restoration included new gaberdine upholstery and a bespoke set of matching luggage, elevating the vehicle’s sophistication and period-correct charm.
The quality of the restoration was immediately recognized. The revamped 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing was awarded “Best Gullwing” at the Gullwing Group’s 1980 National Meeting. This accolade marked the beginning of its journey through prestigious shows, events, and rallies, captivating audiences across the nation and further cementing its legendary status. Even today, this vintage Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing remains a breathtaking spectacle, a testament to its timeless design and meticulous care.
Alloy vs. Steel: A Value Proposition
While all 24 Alloy Gullwings from 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing production remain in existence, they rarely appear on the open market. This scarcity directly translates to their extraordinary value. The lightweight alloy variant commands a premium, making it nearly five times more valuable than its standard steel-bodied counterpart.
To illustrate this value disparity, consider that a steel-bodied 1955 300SL, boasting its original engine, sold for a comparatively modest $1.7 million at the same RM Sotheby’s auction. This stark contrast underscores the significant appreciation for the alloy version of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing and highlights why the “Weckerlé Alloy” achieved its record-breaking price.
To truly grasp the investment potential, consider the original price. Back in the 1950s, a 300SL coupe carried a price tag of approximately $6,820 (roughly $71,000 when adjusted for inflation). The $6.8 million auction price represents an almost unbelievable 10,000 percent increase in value. Remarkably, this appreciation has outpaced the S&P 500 by a factor of 10 over the same period, solidifying the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing not just as an automotive icon, but also as a blue-chip investment.
The record-setting sale of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing reaffirms its reign as the “King of the Gullwings.” Its rarity, historical significance, meticulous restoration, and breathtaking design continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, ensuring its legendary status for generations to come.
