“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
For collectors of vintage automobiles, the pursuit of “the last” of a prized model represents the pinnacle of acquisition. Owning the final example of a significant collectible car, like the 300sl Mercedes, is a unique distinction, setting its owner apart. In a world where many ultimate collectibles are locked away in museums or private collections, inaccessible to most, the opportunity to own the last of an iconic sports car is exceptionally rare.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, often hailed as the “sportscar of the century,” stands as a testament to groundbreaking design, advanced engineering, and exhilarating performance. Its captivating aesthetics and racing pedigree have cemented its place as the most significant and admired automobile in Mercedes-Benz’s celebrated history. The allure of the 300SL Mercedes, especially a unique example like “The Last Gullwing,” resonates deeply with collectors who appreciate not just automotive excellence but also historical significance.
A Cultural Phenomenon: The 300SL Mercedes Everywhere
The 300SL Gullwing transcended mere motorsport success to become a cultural icon of the 20th century, largely due to its relatively substantial production run. Between 1954 and 1957, Mercedes-Benz manufactured 1,400 units of the Gullwing, with many seeing action on racetracks globally.
Its distinctive design, dictated by its innovative lightweight spaceframe—a technology derived from the victorious W194 and W196 racing sports cars of the early 1950s—made the road-going 300SL Mercedes instantly recognizable. The Gullwing seemed ubiquitous, appearing across various facets of popular culture, from Hollywood films to the glamorous boulevards of Europe and even in the challenging terrains of rally circuits. Unlike many ultra-rare mid-century exotic cars from Ferrari, BMW, and Jaguar, the 300SL Mercedes achieved a remarkable level of visibility and cultural penetration.
The 300SL Mercedes Gullwing also benefited from its close technical and visual kinship with its racing sibling, the formidable 300 SLR of 1955. Often considered the “first supercar,” the production Gullwing’s 3.0-liter SLR counterpart earned the moniker of “first hypercar.” The 300 SLR, with its lightweight magnesium body and 300-horsepower engine, achieved unprecedented speeds exceeding 180 mph. In a landmark event, RM Sotheby’s sold the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe in 2022 for a staggering $142 million, establishing it as the most valuable car ever sold, further amplifying the legendary status of the 300SL Mercedes lineage.
Beyond the racetrack, the 300SL Mercedes frequently graced the pages of entertainment publications, becoming synonymous with socialites, industry magnates, film stars, and royalty. The 300SL was not just a car; it was a statement of individuality. Owners could personalize their Gullwings with a wide array of color combinations and factory options, making each car a unique expression of its owner’s taste.
The 300SL Mercedes’s cutting-edge technology and racing heritage earned it countless victories in prestigious sports car races and amateur championships. Yet, what truly distinguishes the Gullwing is its ability to achieve such sporting accolades while simultaneously being celebrated as one of the most elegant and desirable automobiles of the 20th century – a “spacecraft on four wheels,” embodying both performance and sophistication.
“The Last Gullwing”: A Unique Piece of Automotive History
On May 15, 1957, Mercedes-Benz completed chassis number 7500079, “The Last Gullwing,” marking the end of an era for their most iconic model. This 300SL Mercedes is not just the last of its kind; it is a unique artifact embodying the model’s enduring legacy.
“The Last Gullwing” began its journey as a special-order Standwagen, initially showcased by Mercedes-Benz at the 1957 Poznan International Trade Fair. Subsequently, it was integrated into the Mercedes-Benz distribution network in the United States on September 27, 1957. While its exhibition appearances between the Poznan Fair’s conclusion in June and its shipment to America remain undocumented, it is known that by the time 7500079 was released from display duties, the Mercedes-Benz factory had already begun production of its successor, the 300 SL Roadster.
Intriguingly, factory records indicate “The Last Gullwing” was originally finished in Fire Engine Red (DB 534) with a bespoke Crème leather interior (1060), English instrumentation, sealed beam headlamps, bumper covers, and the wider 15 x 5½ -inch Kronprinz wheels typically reserved for the 300 SL Roadster, reflecting its extended stay at the factory.
Despite its profound significance and originality, “The Last Gullwing” spent its early years in America in relative obscurity. However, this exceptional 300SL Mercedes has enjoyed a fortunate existence, cherished by only four recorded owners from new. Remarkably, it retains its factory-correct color scheme and matching chassis, engine, body, gearbox, and front axles. The rear axle, numbered 7500024, is also believed to be original.
After over 25 years under the stewardship of its most recent private owner, “The Last Gullwing” emerged beautifully restored. Its meticulous restoration culminated in an invitation to the prestigious 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, marking the first time a 300SL Mercedes Gullwing was permitted entry to this exclusive event. The judges and attendees lauded 7500079, awarding it 3rd in Class – a remarkable achievement and a testament to the quality of its restoration.
The 300SL Mercedes Gullwing, even “The Last Gullwing,” continues to command global admiration seven decades after its inception. Its enduring appeal stems not just from its Hollywood glamour, racing triumphs, or striking aesthetics, but from embodying an ideal of automotive perfection.
Owning “The Last Gullwing” transcends mere ownership; it is an association with greatness and the legacy of the 300SL Mercedes. Like iconic artifacts such as Michael Jordan’s final game jersey or Babe Ruth’s last home run ball, “The Last Gullwing” represents a tangible piece of history. To possess the “last” of a model that defined an era is to hold a significant piece of automotive and cultural heritage.
