The 26th of 29 examples produced; the only “Alloy” Gullwing originally finished in Black over Red leather Reportedly ordered new by legendary Ferrari importer and Le Mans champion, Luigi Chinetti Acquired by Rudi Klein directly from Chinetti in August 1976 Never driven outside the walls of the Klein “yard” in nearly 50 years Aside from paint, unrestored with its original interior, body, engine, gearbox, rear axle, steering box, and front spindles Accompanied by Mercedes-Benz delivery information and fascinating documentation One of the most exciting post-war Mercedes-Benzes to be offered in decades Following the competition success of the W194 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Carrera Panamericana, Mercedes-Benz sought to create a mildly tamed version that customers could drive on the road.

In recognition of the United States as a critical market, and with New York importer Max Hoffman insisting upon the model’s production for his elite clientele, the W198, soon known as the 300 SL a...