Image via RM Sotheby’s
The Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing is a legendary classic car that routinely pulls down around $1 million or so, even in so-so shape. But even we were shocked to learn this barn find example with heavy patina is worth $10 million. Let that sink in for a moment.
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You’ve probably already guessed this is far from a run-of-the-mill Gullwing, if such a thing exists. Even among the rare classics, this one is a rarity. That’s thanks to the fact the body is made of aluminum, one of only 29 of its kind.
Back in the day, Mercedes made these cars with aluminum panels to cut weight. To make them more competitive, engine output was increased, the suspension was upgrade, and knock-off wheels were included. These cars were used in motorsports
On top of that, this is the only unrestored survivor in the world. If you’re not aware, there are those in the car collector hobby who will pay more for something which hasn’t been restored, heavy patina, imperfections, and all, because they want a vehicle that’s been untouched.
After all, even in faithful restorations, things will never be the same as when the car rolled off the production line, or came out of the barn where it was stored.
Understandably, this 1956 Mercedes 300 SL Alloy Gullwing impresses even Jay Leno. The man owns quite a few rare vehicles and has been able to touch and drive far more, but this classic is truly special.
Not only is this classic Mercedes rare, it has a whole history that’s well-known and fascinating. The car was acquired by Rudi Klein, who owned a massive junkyard in Los Angeles. He routinely purchased rare, sometimes exotic rides like this and then just let them sit in his junkyard.
A number of Klein’s cars were auctioned off my RM Sotheby’s back in October 2024, along with engines and other components. Among them was a Lamborghini Miura P400 that went for $1.3 million and a 1957 Mercedes 300 SL Roadster which sold for $1.1 million.
This one at the time sold for $9.3 million and has an estimated value of about $10 million. That’s crazy to think about, but people with plenty of money will shell out to own this rare, unrestored ride.
Images via RM Sotheby’s
