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A meticulously restored 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, chassis number 198.042.8500299, will be a highlight at RM Sotheby’s Cliveden House Auction in Chobham, UK. This iconic classic car, with a concours-quality restoration costing more than €700,000, is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s enduring legacy of performance and elegance.
The 300 SL Roadster, a symbol of luxury and innovation from the 1950s, combines timeless design with exceptional technology. Originally built in silver (DB 180) with a red leather interior with a black soft top, this car was delivered in Paris and yet specified for the American market. It features chrome wheels, a Becker Mexico radio and a factory hardtop.
The car’s fascinating ownership history includes long-term care by two private owners in Scotland from 1962 to 2011. David Scott Lowe of Edinburgh was the first British owner. He kept the car for almost 33 years before selling it to his good friend, Richard Graham McIlhagga. . After about twelve years, McIlhagga sold the car back to Lowe, who kept it until his death in 2011. The car was then leased to Lowe’s partner, Mrs. Rizalina Thain, who sold it when it needed restoration.
The current owner purchased the car and initiated a full restoration to concours standards by Kienle Automobiltechnik in Germany, known for their expertise in 300 SL restorations. The process, which began in 2015, involved stripping the car down to bare metal and completely rebuilding all mechanical components. The restoration included several upgrades to improve handling, such as front disc brakes, a powerful generator, an improved electric ignition system and Koni shock absorbers and springs.
The restoration retained the car’s original colors, with the addition of a contrasting gray DB 190 G hardtop. The bodywork, rear axle, front kingpins and steering rack were found to be original, while the engine and transmission were replacement units rebuilt to high standards. The restoration was completed in 2019 and since then the car has been driven minimally but carefully maintained, including recent maintenance work by John Haynes in June 2023 and an inspection by Martin Cushway in February 2024.
With just under 3,000 miles since restoration, this 300 SL Roadster is in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition. It is a stunning example of Mercedes-Benz’s finest creation, ready to be driven and enjoyed by its next lucky owner.
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