1957 300SL Gullwing or Roadster? Mercedes-Benz introduced a Roadster version of the 300SL at the 1957 Geneva Motor Show. The 1957 Mercedes Benz 300SL model effectively replaced the popular Mercedes 300SL Gullwing coupe, which was retired that year. Priced at $11,000, it was more expensive than the outgoing coupe and offered a host of upgrades. Like the Gullwing, the roadster featured roughly the same engineering underneath, but the body was changed to incorporate regular doors. Detail differences included larger front fenders, larger European headlights, a small grille, a rounder front windscreen and a chrome accent strip running down the side of the car.
Much like the Coupe, the 1957 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster was available with a wide variety of options, some of the most popular included the hardtop, Rudge wheels, and fitted rear luggage.
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL stands as a pinnacle of postwar automotive engineering and design, coveted by collectors for its rarity, performance, and unmistakable presence. Whether you own a final-year Gullwing coupe or an early Roadster, selling such a prized vehicle comes with unique questions and concerns. At Beverly Hills Car Club, we’ve spent over 20 years guiding sellers through this process, ensuring peace of mind and the best possible outcome.
Originality is everything in the classic Mercedes world. Matching engine and chassis numbers, original color codes, and factory documentation all play a role in establishing provenance. Special features, like fitted luggage or rare interior trims, can further enhance desirability.
The 1957 Gullwing is the last of its kind, with only 70 built that year, making it especially collectible. The Roadster, introduced in 1957, features conventional doors, a revised chassis for easier entry, and a more refined ride. Both share the W198 platform and legendary engineering, but the Roadster’s enhancements make it more practical for regular use.
Value depends on originality, documented history, condition, and current collector demand. The 1957 models, especially pristine Gullwings and well-specified Roadsters, are among the most valuable postwar classics. Beverly Hills Car Club’s team tracks market trends and auction results to provide expert, up-to-date appraisals.
Auctions and online platforms charge significant fees, offer no guarantees, and expose you to unpredictable outcomes. Private sales can be time-consuming, risky, and may attract unqualified or even fraudulent buyers. Security, paperwork, and ensuring a smooth transaction are all major concerns.
Classic car auctions may promise excitement and exposure, but they come with substantial commissions and no guarantee of a successful sale. Sellers must often invest in costly transportation and preparation, only to risk their car not meeting reserve or selling below market value. With only a small window to attract the right bidder, outcomes are unpredictable, and profits can be eroded by fees and commissions.
Online platforms like Bring a Trailer and Cars & Bids have made selling classics more accessible, but they introduce new risks. Sellers may face disputes over condition, hidden buyer’s premiums, and the challenge of accurately representing a rare car online. Emotional bidding wars can inflate prices for buyers, but sellers may still end up with unexpected costs, cancellations, or negative feedback if the buyer feels misled.
Dealing with anonymous or little-known buyers-whether through classifieds or online ads-can expose you to scams, fraudulent payments, and misunderstandings about a car as complex as the 300SL. Without the backing of a reputable business, sellers have little recourse if something goes wrong, and the process can be stressful and risky.
Private sales can take weeks or months, requiring you to handle all paperwork, payment, and logistics yourself. Finding a qualified, serious buyer for a rare 1957 300SL is challenging, and negotiating high-value transactions with strangers introduces personal and financial risks.
If you’re searching for “Sell my 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL,” “Who buys 1957 Mercedes Gullwing,” or “How to sell a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing,” Beverly Hills Car Club is your trusted buyer. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation offer, and let our team of classic car experts make your selling experience seamless and rewarding.
When you’re ready to sell, The Beverly Hills Car Club wants your business! We pride ourselves on no-hassle service, top prices paid, and immediate payment and pick-up. And be sure to browse the Cars We Love category to explore detailed articles, photographs, and Buyer’s Tips.
1954 Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing
1955 Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing
1956 Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing
1957 Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing
1957 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster
1958 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster
1959 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster
1960 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster
1961 Mercedes Benz 300SL Roadster
The 1957 model year marks a turning point for the 300SL. Only 70 Gullwing coupes and 618 Roadsters were produced that year, making either variant a rare find. The Gullwing’s iconic upward-opening doors and the Roadster’s improved usability both appeal to different types of collectors. Both are powered by the legendary 3.0-liter straight-six engine, with the Roadster benefiting from mechanical enhancements like a higher-output camshaft and improved rear suspension, making it both a performer and a pleasure to drive. The 300SL’s motorsport pedigree, including SCCA class wins and privateer racing successes, further cements its blue-chip status.
“My dealings with Alex Manos were great! As soon as we decided on a price the payment went directly into my bank account within 1 hour via wire transfer. I think this sale went quicker than if I had a cash buyer standing in front of me. I would advise anybody to do business with Alex. The whole process was very easy and very professional. I look forward to do more business with Alex.”
“Was referred to Alex and he made the selling experience easy and fast. Once we agreed on a price, all the paperwork, funds and vehicle pick up were completed within 24 hours. Truly the best experience I have had buying or selling a car.”
“My experience was no-nonsense, no sleaze, no hassle when I sold my beloved 1964 Mercedes 230 SL to Alex Manos. Thank you.”
“Pleasure doing business with them. Funds deposited, transportation arranged, just as promised. From my experience I would definitely recommend them.”
“I went to Alex because other people rated him highly in the selling of thier classic car. I sold my 1989 Mercedes Benz 560SL to him at a fair price and he had it picked up in less then a week. This was a great experience all around from the first email to a direct phone call with him to selling and pickup. If you want to have instant results go to them first and talk with Alex Manos.”
“Gevik was very helpful and worked quickly to help me get the car inspected. Although I did not end up purchasing the car, I would definitely work with Gevik and Beverly Hills Car Club again.”
“Thank you to Mr. Manos, and his entire staff, for making the sale process of my car so easy… All I had to do was sign the required documents and return them in the provided envelope. The team members arranged the transport of the car quickly, and at my convenience…”
“Recently sold Alex a 1965 Mercedes. Alex was very professional and the purchase went flawlessly. I described the car to Alex and sent him pictures and the next day Alex wired the funds to my account. Great experience. Thanks Again!”
“I had a ’64 MBZ 230 SL that needed a new home. I found Alex Mano’s website, read it, filled out the short form, uploaded 5 pictures, and waited. About 5 minutes later Alex called and after a short discussion, he sent out a trusted employee with a flatbed who took additional pictures, sent them to Alex and after we reviewed them and settled on a price, I got paid, the car got loaded on the flatbed and off it went. It was a very smooth transaction, the entire process was quick, and I feel very good about the entire process. I’d do it again!”
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