There are few cars as classically gorgeous as mid-century Mercedes-Benz models and Bentleys. Restrained lines meet sporting curvature, resulting in a car that looks as great as it feels to drive. But they can be hard to track down, especially the really good ones. So, if you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to get your hands on one of these, hoping fate will strike, you’re in luck.
At Gooding Christie’s upcoming Pebble Beach Auctions, you’ll find a bunch of gems, all in one rare, special place. If you’re ready to dive into the world of fine automobile auctions, you can register to bid ahead of time here, or check out the online catalogue to see what else is in store.
Whether you’re new here or a frequent fan, you ought to know that the best word to follow “Mercedes-Benz” is “Gullwing.” This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is a gorgeous example of one of the best-designed cars ever created. Born purely out of design necessity to achieve torsional rigidity in its lightweight tubular frame, the Gullwing’s roof-hinged doors have become legendary icons of automotive design. Nobody has ever touched the drama or elegance of the Gullwing, and the beautiful bird-like doors, though many have tried.
This particular one retains its matching-numbers, high-performance NSL-series engine. It has been equipped from new with Rudge knockoff wheels and a highly desirable sport suspension option and is being offered in its original color of German Racing Silver. What’s so special about this particular example is that it was built with most of the options which typically were ordered with the alloy-bodied cars, but without the fragility and plastic windows that come with that specification, making it more lux and durable. In other words, it’s kind of a collector’s dream come true.
Another legendary model, the 1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback, is also a remarkable lot in this sale. Built to excel at distance without ever compromising comfort, the Continental Fastback is the ultimate British postwar touring car. Upon its release, the R-Type continental was the world’s fastest four-seater, as well as the most expensive production car, with a top speed of 120 mph.
This exact example was built for the famed racer and sportsman Bill Spear and is one of just 23 left-hand-drive, center shift R-Type Continentals. The car underwent a stunning restoration performed by the renowned firm P & A Wood, after which it was awarded First in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® in 2009. Not only is this special car one of the most admired designs of the postwar era, but it is also one of the best equipped of the short run of 207 examples.
But there are more smash hits in this auction. The 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is notably being offered without reserve, a real rarity for any 300 SL presented at auction. A particularly desirable feature of this example is that it is a “disc-brake, iron-block” 300 SL, combining the long-term serviceability of the venerable cast-iron engine block with the improved performance and agility afforded by lighter-weight disc brakes. Its restoration and maintenance were performed by marque experts Paul Russell & Company and Rare Drive, Inc., which means the world to those who collect or seek 300 SLs.
The 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is another gem, which strikes the perfect balance of not being over-restored, yet still beautifully preserved. The color scheme of off-white over red interior is as elegant as we’ve ever seen. The car retains its matching-numbers engine per factory build record and comes equipped with a hard top and extremely rare, order-sheet specified leather Tonneau cover.
If you’re more into grand tourers, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc Cabriolet is a show stopper. Attractively finished in Mittelrot Non-Metallic Red, the car retains its matching-numbers 2,996 CC SOHC inline 6-cylinder engine. With the 175 horsepower and column shifted 4-speed gearbox, the car is a marquee member of the final generation of hand-built models from Mercedes-Benz and will make an amazing addition to any collection.
And for those who love a rare, no-reserve Bentley, the 1961 Bentley S2 Continental Drophead Coupe is something special. It is one of 65 left-hand drive, USA market examples, which was delivered new to stage and screen actor Laurence Harvey. The sleek grille, straight-through wind line and hooded headlamps, with Porcelain White paint and beige leather interior make the car as glamorous as you can imagine – another amazing tourer.
Clean lines, curvature, and muscular driving experiences await with these stunning selections. If you’re hoping to find a bit more, look no further than the upcoming Gooding Christie’s Pebble Beach Auctions. You can already register to bid here, or page through the rest of the catalogue.
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