One of the rarest Mercedes-Benz sports cars ever built is about to go under the hammer, and collectors around the world are paying close attention. The car in question is a 1964 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, a model that not only represents the end of an era but also stands as one of the most desirable examples of German engineering from the 1960s.
This particular Roadster is special because it was the second-to-last 300 SL Roadster ever produced. Mercedes-Benz manufactured just three units in 1964 before calling time on the iconic W198 series. The very last one rolled off the production line the day after this example was completed, making it a truly historic piece.
Now, this beautifully preserved sports car is expected to fetch more than $2 million (around £1.49 million) when it crosses the auction block at RM Sotheby’s in Chobham, United Kingdom.
A Sports Car Born From Racing DNA
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL has always held a legendary status. First introduced as a coupe with its famous “gullwing doors” in 1954, it quickly became one of the most recognizable cars in the world. But while the coupe grabbed headlines with its futuristic design, Mercedes also wanted to offer something more subtle for buyers who wanted performance without the dramatic styling. That’s where the 300 SL Roadster came in. Launched in 1957, the open-top version gave enthusiasts the same racing-derived performance but in a more elegant, understated package. Between 1957 and 1963, Mercedes built 1,858 Roadsters, following a production run of about 1,400 coupes. This 1964 model, however, is part of the very last handful to ever be made, making it an even more coveted collector’s item.A Rare Factory Specification
The Roadster being offered by RM Sotheby’s was completed on February 7, 1963, officially registered as a 1964 model. It stands out not only for its late build date but also for its specifications. The car was originally finished in a factory-correct White exterior (DB 050) paired with a Red leather interior (DB 030)—a timeless combination that still looks striking today. It also features highly sought-after upgrades, including:- A lightweight alloy-block 3.0-liter inline-six engine
- Disc brakes for improved stopping power
- Matching numbers for its chassis, gearbox, and rear axle
An International Journey
The car’s story is as fascinating as its engineering. It was originally delivered to Austria through a dealership in Salzburg. Interestingly, it sat unsold for ten months, most likely because Mercedes had just introduced the more affordable and modern W113 SL “Pagoda”, which overshadowed the Roadster in the showroom. In November 1963, the car was sent back to Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart for conversion to the North American market. The modifications included:- Sealed-beam headlights
- U.S.-spec instruments calibrated in miles
- A Becker Grand Prix radio
- Whitewall tires
Ownership History and Restoration
Mr. Lindsay kept the car until late 1970, carefully documenting every service along the way. Early in his ownership, in 1968, the car received a new engine block and pistons—a common factory replacement for alloy-block SLs of the time, as they were still relatively unproven in long-term reliability. By the time the car changed hands in 1970, it had only covered 28,547 miles. It later passed into the hands of several notable collectors, including Phil Smart Sr. and Phil Smart Jr., who ensured the car stayed in pristine condition. In 2001, the Smart family commissioned a full restoration by marque expert Rudi Konicezk in Canada. The work returned the Roadster to its original white-over-red specification, restoring both its beauty and authenticity.Preserved and Documented
Today, the Roadster is a remarkable survivor, showing just 39,143 miles on the odometer. Unlike many classic cars that have been disassembled and rebuilt multiple times, this example has never undergone a complete teardown, leaving much of its originality intact. It also comes with a treasure trove of documentation, including:- Factory build sheets and data cards
- Mercedes-Benz Classic Certificate
- Invoices dating back to 1967
- Records of maintenance and ownership transfers
Power and Performance
Under the hood sits the M198 inline-six engine, producing 212 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque—figures that may sound modest today but were groundbreaking in the early 1960s. Combined with a four-speed manual gearbox, the Roadster delivered a thrilling driving experience, striking a balance between raw sports car performance and the elegance of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship.Why Collectors Want It
For collectors, late-production 300 SL Roadsters like this one are particularly prized because they represent the pinnacle of the model’s evolution. With alloy engines, disc brakes, and decades of well-documented care, this car checks all the boxes for rarity, authenticity, and desirability. It is, in every sense, a snapshot of an era when Mercedes-Benz perfected the blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity.Auction Expectations
When the hammer falls at RM Sotheby’s in Chobham, experts expect this Roadster to sell for around $2.02 million. To put that in perspective, last year another rare variant of the 300 SL—the aluminum-body Gullwing coupe—sold for a staggering $9.3 million, even though it had been left in storage for decades in rough condition. This demonstrates the high value collectors place on the 300 SL family, and why this Roadster could spark intense bidding.Final Thoughts
The 1964 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is more than just a car—it’s a rolling piece of history. As one of the final examples built before Mercedes-Benz closed the chapter on the W198 series, it represents the end of a golden age of sports cars. Beautifully preserved, fully documented, and boasting rare specifications, it’s no wonder this Roadster is expected to command such an extraordinary price at auction. For classic car lovers, it’s a reminder of a time when elegance and engineering worked hand in hand to create some of the most timeless automobiles ever made.FAQS
How much did the 1964 300 SL Roadster likely sell for?
This 1964 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is expected to sell for around £1.495 million, which is about $2.02 million. It is a highly rare and collectible model.
What makes the 1964 Roadster so rare?
The car is one of only three 300 SL Roadsters delivered in 1964, and it was the next-to-last one produced before the series ended—making it incredibly rare and very sought-after.
What does “matching numbers” mean for this car?
“Matching numbers” means its engine, chassis, gearbox, and rear axle all come from the factory and match its original records—adding authenticity and value to this collector’s car.
Why was it modified for the U.S. market?
It was adapted for North America with items like sealed-beam headlights, speed in miles, a Becker radio, and whitewall tires, while still keeping the European 3.64 rear axle for performance.
Who first owned this 300 SL in the U.S.?
The first U.S. owner was Robert Lindsay, who took delivery on February 14, 1964, more than a year after it was built. He kept detailed records of every service through his ownership.
Has the car been restored or changed?
Yes. In 2001, a restoration was done by Rudi Konicezk in Victoria, Canada. It was returned to its original white-over-red colors and kept all original details intact, with minimal changes made overall.
How many miles has this Roadster done?
The car shows 39,143 miles now, believed to be original, and it has never been fully taken apart or rebuilt, making it a well-preserved and genuine example.
What documents and extras come with this car?
It comes with a build card, Mercedes-Benz Classic Certificate, service records, owner’s guides, toolkit, hardtop, two-piece luggage set—proof of meticulous care and well-documented history.
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