There are cars that represent the perfection of an era, and the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is one of them. Presented at the Concorso di Eleganza Varignana 1705, this 1960 icon tells a story that begins in an American barn and reaches the most exclusive stages, thanks to a meticulous restoration that lasted years. An open-top legend that continues to enchant collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
How long have you owned the car?
"I’ve owned it since 1996. When I bought it, it was red, but the original color was different: during the restoration I had it brought back to Mercedes specifications, restoring its authentic livery."
What is the story of the car you brought?
"It is a 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster that I found in America. It was a true barn find: I still remember when I saw it coming out of a barn, the engine running but uneven. Despite the issues, I fell in love with it immediately and managed to buy it, although it took months before I could bring it to Italy. Once it arrived, it sat unused for three years before I began the restoration: the bodywork was entrusted to an Italian workshop, while the mechanics were restored in Germany. The work was completed in 2004".
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What makes this car special?
"First of all, its extraordinary technical perfection, truly rare for a 1960 car. The engine is direct mechanical fuel injection, an avant-garde solution at the time. It is also a pleasure to drive with the top down: the Roadster has the advantage of protecting the cabin from the wind, while still giving the sensation of open-air driving. Its 215 horsepower may seem little today, but it is more than enough to provide genuine thrills. The only aspect to keep in mind is the braking system, still drum brakes: you need to drive it with due attention".
Was there a particular reason for owning it?
"Actually, I would have liked to present an Italian car, but I was advised to bring the Mercedes. And so I did. Today I am still in love with both the Roadster and the “Gullwing” coupé: owning both is for me a dream come true".
The 300 SL Roadster is much more than a classic car: it is the expression of a dream fulfilled, capable of combining beauty, technical innovation, and genuine passion. A story that reminds us that sometimes, under a hood, there is more than just an engine: there is the heart of the one who chose it and the time that gave it new life.
