Mercedes-Benz has enjoyed some of the highest highs in the history of the sports car. From early successes like the 300 SL "Gullwing" to today's hardcore AMG products like the GT R. A Gullwing in any condition commands huge values on the collectible market today, while rarer versions like the 300 SLR have essentially become priceless. Even for collectors with spectacular cars on hand for daily driving, the chance to get behind the wheel of a Gullwing or one of its sports car siblings can't be passed up. This is proven by a recent video from Magnus Walker featuring the self-styled "Urban Outlaw" going for a spin in a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLS.
Too Good To Pass Up
The Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, California, offered Magnus the chance to go ride in the '57 300 SLS with a Benz tech behind the wheel and he jumped at the chance despite not being able to drive himself.
Fully Restored
The 300 SLS is another motorsport-derived variant of the 300 SL, which Walker explains was built as a partnership between Mercedes and race team owner George Tillet. The purpose of the partnership was to make two cars that could compete in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) racing circuit for 1957. With driver Paul O'Shea behind the wheel, the 300 SL was spectacularly successful and won the championship against the likes of Carroll Shelby, at the time driving a Maserati. The car in the video was a legit barn find and was then taken to Mercedes-Benz for a full restoration.
Looks Good, Drives Better
Mercedes brought the car back to factory specifications, including the inline-six which would have produced an impressive 250 horsepower when new. The car now weighs around 2,800 pounds and sounds just as great as it looks. The video also reveals that the rear axle on the 300 SLS uses two degrees of negative camber, making it much more fun to drive than its iconic Gullwing sibling.
Sources: youtube.com and mbusa.com.