When a Classic Gullwing's Flap Becomes a Rare Treasure

Iconic Rarity - The world of automotive legends is filled with remarkable designs and engineering feats, but few vehicles capture the imagination quite like the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. Its distinctive upward-opening doors, reminiscent of a seagull’s wings, lend the car its famous nickname: the "Gullwing." This extraordinary vehicle, introduced in February 1954 at the New York International Motor Sport Show, remains one of the most revered classic cars ever produced. Beyond its striking design, the 300 SL represents a blend of innovation, performance, and exclusivity that makes it a true masterpiece of automotive history.

The late Mr. BJ Habibie posed with his special Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 'Gullwing.' (Picture from: Tempo)

The story of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL begins with its development, which was rooted in a desire to create a vehicle that combined advanced aerodynamics and futuristic aesthetics. Based on the W198-coded chassis, the car's sleek shape was engineered to minimize drag and maximize performance. At its heart was a six-cylinder inline M198 engine, a powerhouse that displaced 2,996 cc and produced an impressive 221 horsepower at 5,800 rpm. This remarkable engineering allowed the 300 SL to achieve a top speed of 250 kilometers per hour, a staggering figure for the 1950s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe with its iconic gullwing door type is displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. (Picture from: GridOto)

Driving enthusiasts were further amazed by the 300 SL’s acceleration. It could sprint from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 7.4 seconds, thanks to its innovative mechanical direct injection fuel system, developed in collaboration with Bosch. This cutting-edge technology ensured optimal fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. The engine's dry sump oil circulation system was another pioneering feature, ensuring uninterrupted lubrication during extreme cornering—a critical advantage for high-speed maneuvers.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL uses a very lightweight a tubular pipe chassis, which is only 50 kg. (Picture from: GridOto)

The vehicle's lightweight tubular chassis, weighing a mere 50 kilograms, was a marvel of engineering. Its cage-like structure contributed to the car’s rigidity and weight reduction but presented a unique challenge for door placement. Traditional side-hinged doors were not feasible, leading to the iconic upward-opening gullwing doors that have since become a symbol of timeless automotive design. These doors were not just functional; they added an air of drama and exclusivity to the car, cementing its status as a design icon.

The cabin of Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe decorated by an elegant bright-red color. (Picture from: GridOto)

Yes, for the car made in the 1950s of course the performance is quite impressive. Moreover, this Mercedes Gullwing uses a very lightweight chassis, which is only 50 kg. The chassis are made of tubular pipes and assembled like a cage. These chassis-shaped is makes the sides doesn't have door hinge holders as usually found in the cars in general. And that's why its door is open upward like a flutter of seagull wings.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe is one of the most sought after cars by the world's antique car collectors. (Picture from: GridOto)

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL wasn’t merely a triumph of engineering; it was also a rare gem in the automotive world. Produced in limited numbers—just 1,400 units—the car became a coveted collector’s item. Around 1,100 of these were sold in the United States, with the remainder distributed worldwide. Today, pristine examples of the Gullwing can command astronomical prices, ranging from $1 million to $2.5 million, or approximately 14 to 35 billion Indonesian rupiahs. Its rarity and desirability have made it a star in auctions and private collections alike.

Rear view of Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe with its iconic gullwing door type is displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. (Picture from: GridOto)

In Indonesia, the Gullwing has a special connection to history. One notable owner was the late third President of Indonesia, Mr Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie, whose personal 300 SL bore the distinctive license plate "B 300 SL." His ownership of this extraordinary vehicle reflects the car’s appeal to individuals with a passion for engineering excellence and timeless beauty.

The automotive passions of the late Mr. BJ Habibie on the German cars can be seen of the Mercedes-Benz car rows that lined up neatly in his garage, including the Mercedes Gullwing. (Picture from: Tempo)

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing stands as a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of classic cars. Its design and engineering continue to inspire awe, while its rarity ensures its place among the most sought-after vehicles in automotive history. From its groundbreaking debut in 1954 to its revered status among collectors today, the 300 SL remains a shining example of what can be achieved when imagination and engineering converge. Like the seagull it emulates, the Gullwing soars above the ordinary, a true icon of the open road.

(We have written this article as a tribute to the late Mr. Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie, who passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, at 18:05 in the Central Hospital of the Indonesian Army, Gatot Subroto, Jakarta. 

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and the entire Indonesian nation. May he rest in eternal peace, and may Almighty Allah grant him the highest place in His paradise. His remarkable contributions to Indonesia and the world will always be cherished and remembered.) *** [EKA [13092019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ]

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