A rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing has set a new record for the iconic model, selling for an astonishing $6.8 million at the RM Sotheby’s Scottsdale auction. This sale solidifies the Gullwing’s status as a highly coveted automotive collectible, pushing the boundaries of classic car values.
A New Benchmark for the Gullwing
The gavel fell at $6.8 million, surpassing previous records for the 300 SL Gullwing. While this figure fell slightly short of the pre-auction estimates of $7 million to $9 million, it significantly outpaced the $4.2 million achieved by a similar 1955 Alloy Gullwing at a 2012 auction. This remarkable sale underscores the enduring appeal and increasing value of these legendary vehicles in the collector market.
The Esteemed “Weckerlé Alloy”
The car in question, chassis number 5500332, is affectionately known as the “Weckerlé Alloy.” It represents a rare breed, as only 24 aluminum-bodied Gullwings were produced in 1955. This limited production run contributes significantly to its rarity and desirability, positioning it among the most collectible production cars ever made.
What further enhances its value is its exceptional originality. This particular rarity is one of a select few to retain its original, numbers-matching 3.0-liter NSL inline-6 engine, high-speed 3.42 rear axle, distinctive Rudge wheels, and its authentic factory-correct aluminum body and livery.
A Masterful Restoration
The “Weckerlé Alloy” also benefited from a comprehensive restoration by Paul Russell & Company, completed in late 1979. This meticulous process not only refurbished the body and mechanical components but also introduced new gaberdine upholstery and a bespoke set of matching luggage. The exceptional quality of this restoration earned it the “Best Gullwing” award at the Gullwing Group’s 1980 National Meeting, paving the way for appearances at numerous prestigious automotive events across the country. Even today, the vintage Mercedes remains a breathtaking spectacle.
The Value of Rarity
While all 24 of the original Alloy Gullwings are believed to still exist, very few ever become available on the market. This scarcity makes the lightweight aluminum variant significantly more valuable—nearly five times—than its standard steel-bodied counterparts. For comparison, 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.
To put the $6.8 million sale price into historical context, the 300 SL coupe originally retailed for just $6,820 in the 1950s (approximately $71,000 in today’s adjusted dollars). This indicates an astonishing increase in value of nearly 10,000 percent, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 by a factor of ten over the same period.
This record-breaking sale unequivocally crowns the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing as the new King of the Gullwings.
Additional Gallery:
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’s
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’s1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’s
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’s1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’s
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing Karissa Hosek/RM Sotheby’sWhat are your thoughts on this record-breaking sale? Share your opinions in the comments below!