Chassis No. 188.014.5500027

Body No. A188.014.5500023

Engine No. 199.980.5500015

Following the conclusion of World War II, Mercedes-Benz shifted its focus toward smaller, more affordable offerings to help revive the German economy and deal with rationed resources. As conditions improved throughout the 1950s, the company's board of directors devised plans to restore its status as a world-class automaker. A key part of this strategy was the reopening of the race department, which boosted internal morale. Perhaps more importantly, the company began producing some of Germany's most opulent vehicles, including the 300 S and the later 300 Sc, and considerably more expensive than the 300 SL.

While the 300 S and 300 Sc shared similarities with the 300 sedans, they were designed to represent the pinnacle of personal transportation. They were available only in three exclusive variants: the 2+2 Cabriolet with distinctive landaulet bars, a Coupe, or a two-seat Roadster with a completely disappearing convertible top. A 150 mm shorter wheelbase, lavish levels of trim inside and out, finely appointed interiors with rich leather and precious wood, and finish details set them apart, solidifying their place at the top of Mercedes-Benz's lineup. It was only natural that these prestigious cars would incorporate innovative technology, and following the successful launch of the 300 SL Gullwing Coupe, the 300 Sc was launched with its own mechanical direct fuel injection system in 1955, replacing the triple carburetor setup used on the 300 S. Additionally, it was fitted with a redesigned, independent low-pivot swing axle rear suspension-a design that would later be used on the 300 SL Roadster.

This cutting-edge technology and meticulous attention to detail came at a premium, with these cars priced nearly three times higher than a comparable Cadillac and almost twice the cost of a 300 SL. Only a small number were produced-98 Coupes, 102 Cabriolets, and 53 Roadsters-between 1955 and April 1958, not only making them a rare sight but highly collectible today.

Previously a part of the esteemed Paul Andrews Collection, the Data Card for this 1956 300 Sc Coupe shows that the car was initially delivered in Vienna, Austria, and finished in Graphite Grey (190) with a Light Grey leather interior. Prior to entering the Andrew's collection in 2016 when it was imported to the United States from Germany. Under prior ownership, the car was meticulously restored to its current color scheme of Black (040) over Dark Green leather interior. Complete with its numbers-matching chassis, engine, and body, the comprehensive restoration touched nearly every aspect of the car. The engine was overhauled and cosmetically restored during the restoration, along with the exterior trim and rich, precious wood interior trim that still retains a deep luster.

Today, the car remains an attractive and well-appointed example with a two-piece set of matching Dark Green leather and the dash-mounted Becker Mexico radio. In recent years, the car has won Best in Class awards at the 2021 Palm Beach Concours and in 2022 at the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic during the Classic & Sports Classic & Sports Sunday. The car is complete with a two-piece set of luggage, matching spare wheel and tire, owner's manual, workshop service manual, and a copy of its original Data Card. Endowed with the incredible combination of striking road presence, high build quality, and rarity, this spectacular 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc Coupe will, no doubt, be a welcome participant at countless concours and touring events across the globe.