Produced from 1954 to 1963, the second generation of the Mercedes Benz 300SL includes the 1958 Mercedes Benz 300SL and is considered to be one of the most sought-after autos among European classic cars today. Generally speaking a road car comes first and a racing version follows, but the radical Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing that hit the market in 1954 was directly derived from the sports racing car that won the Carrera Panamericana and the 24-hours of LeMans in 1952. The road car retained the racing versions strong tubular frame with high sills and featured fully independent suspension and a fuel-injected version of Mercedes Bens 2,995cc single-overhead camshaft engine.
Fast, beautiful, and very expensive at nearly $9,000, only 1,400 of the exclusive coupes were built between 1954 and 1957. When the company introduced the 1958 Mercedes Benz 300SL, the open two-seater offered a modified frame and conventional doors. Power also went up slightly and the swing axle rear suspension was modified to improve handling. A very popular option for these cars was the snug hardtop, while the most notable changes during production where the introduction of four-wheel disk brakes in 1961 and an aluminum engine block by the end of 1962. By the time the Mercedes 300SL Roadster was discontinued in 1963, approximately 1,858 had been built.
The 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL is a crown jewel among classic sports cars, renowned for its engineering brilliance, racing pedigree, and timeless design. As an owner considering selling, you’re not just parting with a vehicle-you’re passing on a piece of automotive history. Understanding what sets the 1958 300SL apart and how to navigate the selling process is crucial to ensuring your car finds the right home and you achieve a seamless, rewarding transaction.
Collectors admire the 1958 300SL for its:
Authenticity is paramount for collectors. Confirming matching engine and chassis numbers (look for the 198.042 prefix for Roadsters), original color codes, and factory documentation all add to your car’s provenance. Special features such as fitted luggage, the factory hardtop, and original manuals further enhance desirability and value.
The 1958 Roadster replaced the iconic Gullwing coupe, offering conventional doors, improved rear suspension for better handling, and roll-up side windows for increased comfort. While both share the same robust M198 engine, the Roadster’s refinements make it more usable for touring and rallies, and its rarity in certain configurations (such as original hardtop-equipped cars) adds to its appeal.
Buyers of high-value classics expect thorough documentation. Gather your car’s original manuals, service records, restoration receipts, and any provenance paperwork. Factory tools, fitted luggage, and hardtop (if equipped) are highly desirable and should be included in your listing.
Value is influenced by originality, condition, documented history, rare options, and current market demand. The 1958 model’s unique place in the 300SL lineage and its limited production make it especially valuable among collectors. Beverly Hills Car Club specializes in classic Mercedes-Benz and can provide a current, data-driven appraisal based on decades of market expertise.
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 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 1958 300SL is challenging, and negotiating high-value transactions with strangers introduces personal and financial risks.
When you’re ready to sell your 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL, you have options-but not all are created equal. Here’s why Beverly Hills Car Club stands above the rest:
If you’re searching for “Sell my 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL,” “Who buys 1958 Mercedes,” or “1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL values,” 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 1958 model year marks a turning point for the 300SL. Only Roadsters were produced that year. The Gullwing’s iconic upward-opening doors was replaced by the Roadster’s improved usability. 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.
“Alex’s business is efficiently run. The people that work are polite and the follow up on a transaction is fast and accurate. I would recommend Alex Manos and company to anyone interested in buying or selling a classic car.”
“From the time I reached out to Alex, had a written offer from him, to my agreement and the wire transfer of the agreed upon amount into my account was less than 48 hours. AMAZING! A very professional, efficient and pleasant operation, it could not have been easier and secure. Thrilled with the 5 STAR experience!!!”
“I’ve never sold a car as quickly and easy. I sent pictures and brief description of my car and got a call from Alex within 90 minutes. We agreed on a price and the money was wired into my account while we where still on the phone. Whole process took 10 minutes. His transport people called me later that same day and the car was picked up the following day. I strongly recommend doing business with Alex Manos.”
“My dad purchased his 280SL Mercedes when I turned 16 in 1984, so that I could have his old car to drive. He drove the car for the next 26 years before his untimely death in 2010. My mom knew that I loved the car and gave it to me. As my kids began to start driving and more cars became needed at our home, the Mercedes was not getting the love that it needed. I didn’t want to sell it, but I hated the idea of it not being used for someone’s complete enjoyment. I found a local place to sell the car, but the price offered was far too low for the quality of the car. 2 years later I was looking through my Mercedes information and found an ad that I had saved about Alex Manos. I called, thinking nothing would come of it. By the first phone call, I was sending him pictures. By the second phone call, he was offering to buy my car. By the third phone call, I was giving him bank information for a sale of the car. By the fourth phone call, I was finalizing pick up of the car with his completely wonderful transportation company. This was such an emotional situation for me, to part with the only “hobby” that my Dad had. Alex and the people that work for him made it painless. The best part for me? I couldn’t find the car on his website about 3 weeks later and to me-that means someone is enjoying it, hopefully in the California sun, driving around happy with their new purchase. That just feels good to me and makes me smile! Thank you Alex and team!”
“Smooth transaction. Thank you.”
“We were very reticent to sell our Mercedes 230 SL on an internet deal. We are naturally skeptical, so we did our homework on Alex Manos and his company. Everything looked great and we went ahead with the sale. We couldn’t be more pleased. The sale went quickly and easily and they made sure we were comfortable with the process at every step of the way. Even though our car had been stored outside under a tarp for 30 years, we agreed on a price that was fair to all. They really mean it when they say they’ll take a car in any condition. Their people came to transport the car, and were able to get it out of a tight situation. We waved goodbye to her as she went down the road on a flatbed, no dry eyes. Got a car to sell? Can’t do better then Alex Manos.”
“We agreed on a fair price and our transaction took place 110 miles from his showroom. He arranged for pickup and payment with paperwork completed in 15 minutes. Jamie, the driver was professional, courteous and helpful. It was a true pleasure conducting business with this company. I would highly recommend Alex to many of my friends as I belong to a collector car club.”
“Selling the old Mercedes convertible was a sentimental decision. Decades ago, we brought our first born home in that car. Alex made the transaction easy and conflict-free. Truly a pleasant experience.”
“After few minor hicks-ups, we got the deal completed today flawlessly. Very satisfied with selling Alex a Mercedes SL in as-is condition for a friend.”
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