Mercedes-Benz 300 SC Roadster 1956

The Mercedes-Benz 300 was produced from 1951 to 1958 and had a modern design compared with traditionally styled pre-war cars. Powerful and minimally heavy, it incorporated modern technology. Its traditional separate-frame construction was less modern than a unitary body, but it was a proven and reliable approach. This method yielded lower production volumes but considerably higher build quality. The front suspension was independent, with coil springs and A-arms, while the rear used a traditional swing-axle arrangement.

The 300-series cars were largely hand-built, with luxurious trim made from the finest materials. They were elegant, safe, fast and comfortable. They had a 120-inch wheelbase. Around 11,430 cars were built between November 1951 and March 1962, including 707 with a convertible-saloon body.

The 300 series debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Some time later, the markedly different Mercedes-Benz 300 and 300S were displayed in Paris. The 300S had a shorter, 114.2-inch wheelbase and a more powerful carburettor engine. Both models had two-door bodies offered as coupés and cabriolets. At the time, this was the most exclusive car in the Mercedes range, intended for the most discerning customers.

Mercedes-Benz 300S production ran from July 1952 to April 1958, with around 760 built. Only 98 of them were produced between 1955 and 1958.

At the 1955 Paris Motor Show, Mercedes presented the final interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz 300S: the 300SC. It featured an updated version of the engine previously used in the Mercedes-Benz 300SL, with Bosch fuel injection and a mechanical governor. A major advance was Mercedes-Benz’s new rear-suspension design, which improved the car’s high-speed capabilities.

For example, one 300SC Coupe was restored in 2007 and offered by Gooding & Company at an auction in Pebble Beach, California. Estimated at $225,000–$275,000, it attracted a highest bid totalling $286,000 including the buyer’s premium.