Launched in 1954, the production 300 SL retained the spaceframe chassis and lightweight aluminium-alloy bodywork of the W194 racer while its mechanical underpinnings, like the latter’s, owed much to the contemporary Mercedes-Benz 300 luxury saloon.

A 2,996cc overhead-camshaft inline six, the 300 SL’s engine was canted at 45 degrees to achieve a low bonnet line and produced 215bhp (DIN) at 5,800rpm using Bosch mechanical fuel injection.

A four-speed, all-synchromesh manual gearbox transmitted power to the hypoid bevel rear axle.

Suspension was independent all round: by wishbones and coil springs at the front, with swing axles and coil springs at the rear.

The company’s U.S.

distributor, Max Hoffman, decided that there was a market in America for a fast, sensual Mercedes-Benz coupe, and a production version of the racing 300 SL (complete with the fascinating gullwing doors) would be it.

This 300SL Recreation was built by the well known Anton ‘Tony’ Ostermeier. As a former Mercedes ...