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.
“The whole process was super-easy and fast.”
“9-13-17 I recently sold my beloved 1965 Mercedes SL 230 to Alex Manos. Alex was very prompt with 4 phone calls and 4 follow up e-mails. Alex did everything he said he was going to do and the funds were wired to my bank within hours. After we agreed upon a price I told him there were blemishes and some rust on the rear wheel wells and his reply was, “Rick, the only time you will ever hear from me is if you have another car for sale!” I then said, the car has been sitting in my garage and probably could use a new battery and should I drain the gas and his reply was, ” Rick, if it makes you feel better, by all means go ahead, but it isn’t necessary!” After those two comments, I knew I was dealing with a Pro!”
“I had owned a MB 280SL for 16 years as an investment and decided it was time to sell. My internet search found Alex. After providing a few pictures and telephone discussion he purchased this car for my asking price. All transactions were completed as discussed in a timely manner. I would highly recommend Alex as a good resource for selling your car.”
“This was the smoothest transaction I have gone through, period. Within 24 hours of reaching out to Alex, we agreed on a price, money arrived in my account within two hours, arranged for pick up and delivered to transporter the next morning. This is a top notch organization and easy to recommend.”
“This was the second time I had the pleasure to deal with Alex Manos and his very professional team. I felt we came upon a price which was fair, and the expedient way these people handled payment and transportation was excellent. He has a great team of people who kept me in the loop and answered any questions. I will be contacting him again next time I feel it is time to say goodbye to one of my old friends. ”
“My experience with Alex was beyond what I expected. First he let me explain what I had to offer and we came to an agreement to the price almost immediately. The check arrived a couple of days later. Alex, his assistant and the transport treated us so well that I would recommend them to anyone.”
“Over a 30 year span in the collector car hobby this was by far the smoothest transaction I’ve ever experienced, either selling or buying. If I could give Alex and his staff 10 stars, I would.”
“Alex was polite and to the point. Not a lot of time to come to an agreement. Only issue was with the transportation people which was not his fault. I only got an hour and half notice before they were to arrive. They were efficient and did a good job however.”
“I called Alex to see if he could recommend a price I could sell my 1968 280SL MB. I was looking for an appraisal. He stated he wanted to see pictures. After he saw the pictures he made me a fair cash offer. The transaction was completed in the same day. The money was delivered, I deposited it in my bank, and the car was transported to Alex. I’m very satisfied.”
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