Mecum Auctions’ Monterey Sale Showcases 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster and 1963 Ferrari 250GT/L Lusso

A 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is a highlight of Mecum Auctions’ Monterey sale. Mercedes-Benz introduced a new incarnation of its 300SL at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show, the fleet-footed 300SL Roadster (W 198 II series). The vehicle was designed in response to the growing demand for performance-driven open-top sports cars. A vertical arrangement of the headlamp lenses and a redesigned front end set the roadster apart from its predecessor. In addition, the new version included upgraded running gear, a modified coupe space frame, lower entry sills for easier access, and front-hinged doors. This example is equipped with a 2996cc/215 HP inline 6-cylinder and a four-speed manual transmission. The car recently received a professional, two-year body-off restoration by the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center of Irvine, California. Mecum’s Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster was the very first 300SL Roadster to feature Strawberry red metallic color. In 2012, this car won the Amelia Award at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. 

A 1963 Ferrari 250GT/L Lusso with a 2953cc V-12 engine is another leading lot. During the 1962 Paris Motor Show, Ferrari unveiled the 250 GT Berlinetta ‘Lusso’— a model that filled a gap between Ferrari’s race cars and its high-end luxury cars. Designed to replace the 250GT coupe, the 250GT/L incorporated a four-speed manual transmission and a leather interior. The available Ferrari 250 GT/L was one of the 350 cars built between 1963 and ‘64, making it an extremely rare vehicle. Visit Mecum Auctions for more information on the upcoming Monterey auction and to place a bid.