1957 MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SC CABRIOLET A
The revived Frankfurt and Paris auto shows of 1951 confirmed the upward trajectory of Europe’s postwar reconstruction and progress, exemplified by compelling exhibits by Mercedes-Benz at both venues. Recalling its highly effective 1930s practice of displaying accessible, higher-volume model lines alongside more exclusive and expensive high-level offerings, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the updated 170 S sedan, 300 limousine, and soon-to-be-victorious 300 SL competition cars, and three iterations of the 300 S in Roadster, Cabriolet, and Coupe body styles.
In particular, the 300 S – internally designated ‘W186’ – captivated showgoers with its classic styling cues, sheer presence, hand-built quality, and impressive engine specification. Evoking the glamor and exclusivity of prewar models like the 540K, the 300 S lineup marked a significant step forward with its shorter-wheelbase chassis derived from the 300 ‘Adenauer’ limousine, with ample power delivered by a detuned version of the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine employed by the racing 300 SL. Bodies were designed by Hermann Ahrens, whose design credits reached back to the stunning Mercedes-Benz 540 K of the 1930s. Ongoing development yielded the more powerful, Bosch fuel-injected 300 Sc, which also ushered in a revised suspension and debuted at Frankfurt in September 1955. Massively expensive when new, the limited-production 300 Sc was the preferred automotive choice of many of the era’s wealthiest and most influential buyers; consequently, just 200 were produced via special order through 1958, comprising 98 sedans, 53 Roadsters, and just 49 examples of the Cabriolet A.
A product of impeccable quality, all surviving examples of the 300, 300 S, and 300 Sc are rightly coveted by astute collectors and marque enthusiasts today, Produced at the renowned Mercedes-Benz coachworks at Sindelfingen, the 300 models were endowed with painstakingly fitted body panels, with hand-leaded edges and seams, yielding exceptionally straight and accurate gaps. Bright trim items were carefully fitted to each body, then removed and beautifully chrome-finished prior to final installation. The opulent interiors featured rich wood veneer, cut in book-matched symmetrical patterns and featured the specific grain and finish specified by each individual buyer.
One of the 49 examples of the 300 Sc Cabriolet A produced, this wonderful example from 1957 was finished new in Graphite Grey over Red leather upholstery with a black convertible top. This hand-built Mercedes-Benz flagship continues to benefit handsomely from an older, high-quality restoration performed by noted marque specialist Charles Brahms. Formerly part of a noted private collection for 30 years, this 300 Sc is finished in Red paintwork with Mottled Cognac leather upholstery and a Tan convertible top. Notwithstanding some age-related paint imperfections visible upon close scrutiny, this splendid 300 Sc continues to present very well throughout. The passenger compartment features the captivating and painstakingly crafted wood trim, finely detailed switchgear; a Becker ‘Mexico’ radio, and VDO instruments monitoring the oil pressure, coolant temperature, fuel level, speed, and amperage. The leather upholstery is lovely and inviting, showing virtually no wear. The soft top is done in tan Sonnendeck canvas, and is in fine order overall, with a small tear noted at one hinge point. Exterior accessories include Bosch driving lights, a driver’s side mirror, and the signature landau irons of the Cabriolet A, while color-matched wheel covers complete the superb presentation. A top-boot cover, spare tire, and roadside jack are included with the sale of the vehicle. Mechanically, the car is correct and in generally good order, though it has been on static display for an extended period, and some minor recommissioning is required.
Handsomely presented, powerful, and exceedingly rare, this 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc Cabriolet A is a collector-grade example of these visually striking, hand-built Grand Touring machines from Mercedes-Benz. Few of their contemporaries could possibly match their uncanny level of quality and refinement, and this example provides an extremely rare opportunity to appreciate their many virtues, best experienced directly on your favorite stretch of the open road.
Offers welcome and trades considered
$790,000
STOCK NUMBER 7374
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