MERCEDES BENZ 300 SL Roadster Hardtop (W198) 1958-1963 Photos, engines & full specs

Mercedes-Benz unveiled the 300 SL Roadster at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1957 as a successor for the famous "Gullwing" model, and both vehicles were born a the initiative of the U.S. importer, Max Hoffman.

Regardless of how fast and stunning the "Gullwing" was, it had a few drawbacks for a daily driver. First and foremost was the difficult access due to the tall side sills caused by the racing-inspired chassis. Max Hoffman noticed that too and asked the German carmaker to produce a roadster version for it. So, Mercedes-Benz ended up creating a new chassis with a different rear suspension and lower frames that could provide access via two regular doors.

From the design point of view, the 300 SL Roadster was not that far from its coupe stablemate. It still featured the same rounded shapes and the low hood flanked by taller front fenders. Yet, the "eyebrows" above the wheel-arches were kept, and the same was for the side vents on the front fenders. But unlike many other carmakers from that era, Mercedes-Benz found a way to install flush door handles. At the back, the sloped, curved trunk lid revealed a large luggage space. To keep the clean, beautiful lines of the roadster, the carmaker didn't install a folding roof but offered a removable hard top instead.

The interior featured two bucket seats separated by the transmission tunnel, which also covered the gearbox. Thanks to the leather-wrapped interior and the chromed trims, the car offered a luxurious look and comfort. The instrument cluster was placed in front of the steering wheel, with the speedometer and tachometer separated by two column-style gauges.

Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed a direct fuel-injected engine, which was way more advanced than the classic carburetors. That helped the drivers enjoy the car's sportiness. Moreover, starting with 1962, all cars came fitted with disc brakes in all corners.