The iconic 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing has once again cemented its status as a king among classic cars. A remarkably rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing achieved a staggering $6.8 million at RM Sotheby’s Scottsdale auction, establishing a new benchmark for this legendary model. While bids were anticipated to reach between $7 million and $9 million prior to the auction, the final sale price triumphantly surpassed the previous record held by another ‘55 Alloy Gullwing, which sold for $4.2 million in 2012.
This exceptional vehicle, chassis number 5500332, affectionately known as the “Weckerlé Alloy,” is one of only 24 aluminum-bodied Gullwings produced in 1955. This limited production run elevates it to one of the most coveted and rarest production cars ever created, making its auction appearance a significant event for collectors worldwide.
What truly distinguishes this particular 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing is its unparalleled originality. It is among a select few that retain its original, numbers-matching components, including the potent 3.0-liter NSL inline-6 engine, a high-speed 3.42 rear axle, precise front spindles, and distinctive Rudge wheels. Crucially, it boasts its authentic alloy body and factory-correct livery, preserving its historical integrity in remarkable fashion.
Adding to its distinguished history, the “Weckerlé Alloy” underwent a meticulous restoration by the renowned Paul Russell & Company, completed in 1979. This comprehensive restoration not only revitalized the body and mechanical elements but also introduced luxurious new gaberdine upholstery and a bespoke set of matching luggage, enhancing its vintage charm and collectibility. The exceptional quality of this restoration was immediately recognized when the car was awarded “Best Gullwing” at the prestigious Gullwing Group’s 1980 National Meeting. Since then, this stunning 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing has graced numerous shows, prestigious events, and rallies, maintaining its breathtaking allure through the decades.
While all 24 Alloy Gullwings are accounted for today, they rarely become available for purchase on the open market. This scarcity dramatically amplifies the value of the alloy variant, making it approximately five times more valuable than its standard steel-bodied counterpart. To illustrate this value gap, a steel-bodied 1955 300 SL, also featuring its original engine, sold for a comparatively modest $1.7 million at the same RM Sotheby’s auction. This stark contrast underscores the premium placed on the Alloy Gullwing’s rarity and exclusivity within the classic car world.
To fully appreciate the extraordinary appreciation of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, consider its original price. Back in the 1950s, this dream car carried a price tag of just $6,820, which equates to roughly $71,000 when adjusted for inflation today. The $6.8 million auction price signifies an astounding value increase of nearly 10,000 percent, vastly outperforming traditional investments like the S&P 500 by a factor of ten over the same period. This remarkable return highlights the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing not only as an automotive icon but also as a sound investment for discerning collectors.
The record-breaking sale of this 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Alloy Gullwing reaffirms its legendary status and enduring appeal. It stands as a testament to automotive excellence, design innovation, and timeless beauty, rightfully claiming its throne as the King of the Gullwings in the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors globally.
