In a landmark moment for classic car aficionados and collectors alike, a rare and highly sought-after 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is set to headline H&H Classics’ debut auction at Kelham Hall in Nottinghamshire on Wednesday, 10th September. With an estimated value between £650,000 and £750,000, this exceptionally desirable model stands out as one of just 209 examples ever built with an alloy engine block and four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, cementing its place among the most revered Mercedes-Benz road cars of all time.
A Collector’s Crown Jewel
Hailed as one of the last and most refined iterations of the legendary 300SL, this 1963 Roadster represents the swansong of the SL’s golden era. While originally fitted with a lightweight alloy block, the car now houses an earlier cast-iron cylinder block, a common and practical update for longevity, given the tendency of the pioneering alloy units to warp under heat. Importantly, the car is still described by the vendor as being matching numbers in all other respects, and remains a compelling opportunity for discerning collectors.
“This 300SL Roadster is a spectacular centrepiece for our first ever auction at Kelham Hall,” said Lucas Gomersall, motor car specialist at H&H Classics. “It’s been part of a significant private collection that also included a 300SL Gullwing we previously sold, so expectations are high for this equally impressive Roadster.”
History, Provenance and Patina
Supplied new to the United States, this Roadster has called Europe and the UK home since 1995, where it has benefitted from thoughtful restoration and respectful modification. Between 1996 and 1997, it underwent a bare-metal bodywork restoration, and by 2003, it had been tastefully reimagined as a ‘rallywagen’, participating in numerous historic rallies and classic tours.
Today, it wears a genuine, careworn patina—a badge of honour for many collectors that speaks to the car’s use and pedigree. Purists and restorers alike will be pleased to know the car retains its original chassis, body, gearbox, and comes with its original differential, which was swapped out for a limited-slip variant to suit spirited rally driving.
A Prestigious New Venue
The sale also marks an exciting new chapter for H&H Classics, as Kelham Hall becomes the latest addition to its auction calendar. The Victorian country house—grand, historic, and deeply atmospheric—offers an exceptional backdrop for an event that blends automotive heritage with collector-grade craftsmanship.
“The beautiful surroundings of Kelham Hall provide the perfect setting for the auction of a celebrated automotive work of art,” said Gomersall. “It’s sure to be a special event with a strong showing of other desirable classic, collectable and performance motorcars.”
Preview Opportunities for Enthusiasts
Prospective bidders and curious onlookers will have a chance to inspect the 300SL Roadster up close on Tuesday, 9th September, during the official viewing day at Kelham Hall. In addition, the car will make a special appearance at H&H’s final free-to-attend ‘Classics & Coffee’ event of the summer, also held at Kelham Hall, on Wednesday, 13th August—offering an ideal occasion for automotive enthusiasts to preview this exceptional machine in a relaxed and elegant setting.
With its impeccable provenance, rare specification, and charismatic presentation, this 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is poised to turn heads and ignite paddles when it goes under the hammer. Whether restored to concours condition or enjoyed in its current rally-ready guise, it offers a rare chance to own a true automotive icon.
