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Mercedes-Benz - 300SL (1960)
Looking for the vintage allure of a Mercedes-Benz 300SL and wondering about its current Mercedes-Benz 300SL price? The 1960 classic—known for its iconic gull-wing doors and pioneering engineering—continues to captivate collectors, yet each unit’s value is shaped by years on the road, condition, and market demand. Below, we break down what you need to know to assess the “Mercedes-Benz 300SL 1960 price,” how it depreciates over time, and how it compares to other historical gems.
- Model Year: 1960 (only a few were produced in that inaugural year)
- Engine: 3.0‑liter (2954 cc) straight‑six, four‑stroke, DOHC, 150 hp at 6000 rpm
- Transmission: 4‑speed manual (optional 5‑speed)
- Fuel Type: Gasoline (premium)
- Power‑to‑Weight Ratio: 8.9 kW/tonne
- Top Speed: 167 mph (269 km/h) (claimed) 0‑60 mph: ~4.8 seconds
- Dimensions: L = 4,120 mm / W = 1,895 mm / H = 1,520 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,530 mm
- Curb Weight: 1,230 kg (without tires)
- Brakes: Mechanical drum front and rear (earliest, replaced by hydraulic in later models)
- Suspension: Independent front with transverse wishbones; live rear axle
- Gearbox: Manual 4‑speed, synchrom top three gears (first gear non‑synchromesh)
Because the Mercedes-Benz 300SL was built in limited numbers—only 230 were produced in 1960—the market is highly sensitive to originality and preservation. As a result, the used Mercedes-Benz 300SL price can vary dramatically: a pristine, original blue 1960 unit might command several hundred thousand dollars, whereas earlier, heavily repaired examples may sit in the low‑six‑figure range.
Depreciation Insight
Unlike contemporary muscle cars, the early Mercedes-Benz 300SLs demonstrate a different depreciation curve. Historical data indicate the following trends:
- Typical first‑year loss: 15–20 % of its value
- Long‑term decline slows after year five, often dropping 5–7% annually if kept in strong condition
- Major restoration projects generally restore value, preventing a steep out‑of‑market drop
When you ask, “what is a 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL worth,” the answer hinges on factors like mileage (with “lifetime average” generally below 5,000 mi for marketable examples), original parts retention (doors, gull wing mechanism, engine), and provenance. A car with minimal modifications and detailed records of service stands at the upper price tier.
Comparison Context
In the vintage sports car landscape, the 300SL holds a unique place. Compared to similar models from the 1960s:
- Ferrari 250 GT: Originators of the mid‑century grand tourer; typically command 5–8 % lower than a comparable condition 300SL.
- Porsche 356: Earlier production; value often matches a 300SL if in superior cosmetic condition.
- Jaguar E-Type: Launched a year later; usually measures 10–15 % higher, though 300SL’s gull‑wing iconography gives it distinctive appeal.
These comparisons underline that the Mercedes-Benz 300SL price for well‑maintained 1960 units remains competitive and sometimes even preferable to newer vintage sports coupes, thanks to its engineering legacy and Porsche’s understated style.
Market Position
The 300SL continues to be highly prized among the classic European sports car segment, especially in Europe’s Northern and Central markets where heritage cars retain strong resale values. In the United States, the model is a staple at collectors’ shows and can often outshine similarly aged counterparts in auction turnover.
Get the Latest Pricing Information
Curious about current valuations, condition grading, or restoration services for your potential 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL? Our continuous database updates reflect the latest auction results, dealer offers, and private sales. Contact our specialists today for a personalized valuation and to stay ahead of market trends.
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 years ago | used | £0.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £985,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £0.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £1,080,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £965,000.00 | Unlock all links |