Description
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL (where SL stands for Sport Leicht) is a two-seater car from the German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz , which was manufactured from 1952 to 1963. The 300SL could be distinguished into two types: The W 198 I was the coupé with gullwing doors that was produced from 1952 to 1957. The W 198 II was the open roadster that was produced from 1957 to 1963.
To participate in motor racing again after the Second World War, Mercedes-Benz developed the 300SLR , a two-seater racing car modeled after the legendary W196 . Racing enthusiasts were offered an alternative through the development of the 300 SL, using knowledge gained from the 300 SLR, and many racing components were incorporated into this car. Characteristic was the very rigid construction of the chassis in the form of welded tubes to ensure a good distribution of reaction forces. Furthermore, a swing-axle construction was applied to the rear wheels. The engine was sourced from the Type 300 (later known as the Adenauer ) and modified and positioned at an angle so that it could be mounted under the low hood.
300SL Roadster
The W 198 II ( 300SL Roadster ) was introduced in 1957 as the successor to the 300SL Coupé, as the latter did not meet Mercedes' standards of comfort for normal street use. The swing-axle suspension was replaced by independent suspension and the suspension became softer, although this did not benefit sporty handling. Braking performance was also not optimal due to the use of drum brakes, which is why the cars were fitted with disc brakes all around from March 1961. The car, offered as a Roadster, was now only available as a standard two-door car with an optional detachable hardtop. 1858 units of this type were manufactured until the final production year (1963).
