Chassis No. 198.042.7500432

Engine No. 198.980.7500425

Body No. A198.042.7500356

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster emerged from a legacy of post–World War II innovation and racing triumph. Its roots trace back to the W194 300 SL race car, which made a name for itself with victories at prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Carrera Panamericana. These early successes set the stage for the launch of the now-iconic 300 SL Gullwing Coupe. Crucial to the Gullwing's creation was Max Hoffman, the influential U.S. importer and dealer who recognized its potential in the American market and pushed for its production.

The Gullwing debuted to instant acclaim, prompting Hoffman to advocate for a convertible version tailored to sun-soaked markets like California. However, creating the Roadster required far more than simply removing the roof. Major engineering overhauls were necessary, particularly to the advanced space frame, which had to be redesigned to accommodate conventional side-hinged doors in place of the coupe's signature roof-hinged Gullwing doors.

Technological refinements set the Roadster apart from its predecessor. A newly developed rear suspension featuring a low-pivot swing axle significantly reduced mid-corner snap oversteer, improving stability and control. Softer springs further enhanced its road manners, creating a balance between performance and comfort that appealed to a broader range of drivers.

At the heart of the 300 SL Roadster was its groundbreaking engine-marking the world's first use of direct fuel injection in a production car. Developed in collaboration with Bosch, this innovation ensured precise fuel delivery and consistent performance under varying conditions, reducing the need for constant tuning. To offset the additional weight of the convertible chassis, all Roadsters came equipped with sport camshafts, increasing output to 240 horsepower at 5,800 rpm-a 20-horsepower rise over the Coupe.

According to a copy of its original Data Card, this first model year 300 SL Roadster was shipped to the United States on 9 December 1957 and was sold new through Studebaker Packard. Finished in vibrant Light Blue (DB334), this rarely seen standard production color was applied to just 101 cars when new, representing just 5.4-percent of the 1,858 Roadsters produced. This charming color was complimented by a White leather (1079) interior with a Beige convertible top. Additional notes on the Data Card show that it was supplied with instrumentation in English with miles designation, sealed-beam headlights, "Made in Western Germany" plates, a Becker Mexico radio, reversing lights, and a 3.89:1 differential gear ratio.

Previous research indicates that the car had only two caretakers in the United States through 1989. As entered in the Gull Wing Group International Registry in 1985, the car was under the stewardship of Robert G. Rager or Bayshore, New York at the time. The car was then brought back to Germany in 1989, where a Mr. Kaesmacher of Dusseldorf acquired it.

As directed by Kaesmacher, the original sealed-beam lights were replaced with Rest of World (RoW) specification lights, along with reupholstering the interior with Cognac leather and a new Black soft-top. At the same time, the color was changed to its current presentation in Sonderlackierung Anthracite Gray Metallic (DB172), which was applied to just seven Roadsters from new. It was not just cosmetics that were restored; the engine and transmission were overhauled, and other mechanical work was reported to have been completed.

The car remained with Kaesmacher for over 20 years until 2011, when noted expert Ivan Page-Radcliff purchased it. Following the purchase, the car was brought to the United Kingdom and stayed there until 2013, when it was sold to a French collector. The car then returned to the United Kingdom with its next owner in 2015. Since then, the car has seen limited use but has been regularly serviced by qualified technicians from DK Engineering and Riverside Engineering.

Most recently, Martin Cushway performed an inspection in January 2025 with the report confirming that 7500432 retains its original numbers matching chassis, engine, transmission, rear axle, steering box, spindles, and all five correctly date-stamped wheels. This car represents a truly extraordinary opportunity, as countless cars have had these crucial components replaced over the past six decades. Given this rarity, condition, and high level of authenticity, this 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is a truly enticing opportunity to acquire a shining example of this era-defining sports car.