On April 18th in Bishop’s Stortford, UK, Hilton & Moss, a leading authority in the restoration and sales of classic and high-performance vehicles, proudly announced the availability of a beautifully restored Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. Recognized globally as possibly the first-ever open-top supercar, the 300SL has undergone an extensive, no-expense-spared restoration at Hilton & Moss’ cutting-edge facilities, now showcasing the vehicle in its original splendor.
This week, the 300SL will make its public debut at the esteemed Salon Prive London, taking place at the Royal Hospital Chelsea from April 18th to 20th. This event promises to be a spectacle, whether the Roadster is cruising the streets or gracing the Concours lawn.
Hilton & Moss has cultivated a deep connection with the Mercedes-Benz brand over the past four decades, establishing itself as a premier name in the restoration and preservation of classic models from Stuttgart. The 300SL Roadster, introduced between 1957 and 1963, evolved from the 300SL ‘Gullwing’ coupe. It brought several innovations to the auto industry, such as fuel injection and a light, tubular-frame chassis derived from motorsports.
The Roadster’s impressive specs include a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 225 horsepower, capable of reaching up to 140 mph and accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 7.5 seconds. Renowned for its transformative performance and exquisite design during its era, the 300SL continues to be a coveted piece among collectors.
This specific model showcases Hilton & Moss’ extensive restoration expertise and deep knowledge of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. After arriving at their workshop in need of a comprehensive overhaul, this 300SL has been meticulously restored to a showroom condition. All restoration work was expertly handled by Hilton & Moss’ technicians in Bishop’s Stortford.
Not just a piece of automotive history, the 300SL Roadster also traces its lineage back to the W194 sportscar, a race winner and a legend in its own right. Introduced to the roads largely due to Max Hoffman, Daimler-Benz’s U.S. importer, who recognized its appeal to affluent American buyers, the Roadster version began in 1957 infused with a touch of California flair.
The Roadster initially journeyed from the USA to Germany and finally to the UK, where its last owner committed to restoring it to its peak condition at Hilton & Moss. The vehicle underwent a full teardown and meticulous restoration of both its structure and interior, returning it to its period-correct Anthracite Grey color. The interior now features freshly restored red-hide leather that matches the original, ensuring its elegance and durability for years to come.
The mechanical systems were completely rebuilt, ensuring the 300SL remains a standout example of timeless, high-performance motoring. Now, after only a few miles post-restoration, this automotive masterpiece is searching for a new home.
William Garrett, General Manager at Hilton & Moss, commented on the significance of this restoration: “We are thrilled to present this exceptional 300SL Roadster for sale. Achieving such a restoration requires immense dedication, consuming over 3,500 man-hours to reach perfection. This car not only represents the pinnacle of our craft but also stands as a testament to our team’s passion and expertise in restoring classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles. It’s a true gem, and we look forward to showcasing it at Salon Prive in London.”
