A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Gullwing’ which has been with the same owner for more than half a century is set to star at Bonhams’ Bond Street auction on 6 December.
In addition to being driven by racing legend John Surtees, the car played a starring role at the 2001 Goodwood Festival of Speed, when it served as the focal point atop one of the most architecturally challenging sculptures in the event’s history.
The highly original example is expected to fetch more than £1m when it crosses the block in the capital, and was notably owned by collector John Young for more than 50 years. The Mercedes dealer has had a series of 300SLs pass through his hands, but always reserved a special place in his garage reserved for this car, owing to both its original condition and specification: the 300SL was fitted with Rudge wheels and fitted luggage from new.
Since it was first ordered by the De Ferranti family the car has enjoyed a pampered life, only being used for light touring in Young’s ownership. Very little has been changed in that time, with the exception of a years-old re-paint in its original colour. It has now covered just 43,000 miles.
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Greg MacLeman is a contributor to and former Features Editor of Classic & Sports Car, and drives a restored and uprated 1974 Triumph 2500TC