The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster 1962 is a classic car that seamlessly blends style, luxury, and performance. It's a highly sought-after model that has become a crowd favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
At the heart of this masterpiece is a 3.0-liter engine that delivers a whopping 215 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time. This engine features an overhead camshaft, which helps deliver smooth and consistent power throughout the rev range. It also has a Bosch mechanical fuel injection system, which helps improve fuel efficiency while delivering maximum power.
The car comes equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, which allows for precise gear changes and better control during high-speed driving. The transmission also features a racing-style dogleg first gear, which allows for faster acceleration.
One of the most distinctive features of the 300SL Roadster is its suspension system. The car's front suspension features double wishbones and coil springs, while the rear suspension features a swing axle and coil springs. Both suspension systems work together to provide a comfortable and smooth ride, while also delivering excellent handling and cornering abilities.
The car's brakes are equally impressive. It comes equipped with four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, which provides excellent stopping power even at high speeds. At the time of its launch, the 300SL Roadster was the first production car to feature this type of brake system.
The exterior of the car is equally striking. The body is made of lightweight aluminum, which helps keep the car's weight down while also providing excellent structural rigidity. The doors feature an iconic gullwing design, which provides easy access to the cabin and adds to the car's sleek and sporty look.
The interior of the car is luxurious and refined, with leather seats and a wood-trimmed dashboard. The car also comes equipped with a Becker Mexico radio, which was state-of-the-art at the time of its launch.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster 1962 is a technical masterpiece that combines performance, luxury, and style in a package that has stood the test of time. Its advanced engineering and innovative features have helped make it one of the most iconic cars in automotive history.
Milestones
- The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster was introduced in 1957 as the successor to the 300SL Gullwing. - In 1961, the 300SL Roadster underwent several updates, including the addition of disc brakes and a new engine with increased horsepower. - The 300SL Roadster went through production until 1963, with approximately 1,858 units built during its run. - In 1962, the 300SL Roadster was available with an optional hardtop, which could be removed to convert the car into a convertible. - The 300SL Roadster featured a lightweight aluminum body and a unique dashboard design that included a toggle switch for the fuel tank valve. - Notable owners of the 300SL Roadster included Clark Gable, Sophia Loren, and John Lennon. - In 2013, a 1962 300SL Roadster sold for over $1.2 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive Mercedes-Benz cars ever sold.Technical
- Engine: 3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder, gasoline-powered engine - Max power output: 215 horsepower at 5,800 rpm - Max torque output: 202 pound-feet at 4800 rpm - Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission with optional 4-speed automatic - Suspension: Independent front suspension and single-joint swing axle rear - Brakes: Front and rear hydraulic drum brakes and optional metallic brake linings - Steering: Recirculating ball steering - Top speed: 140 mph (225 km/h) - Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds - Wheelbase: 94.5 inches (2,400 mm) - Length: 178.3 inches (4,530 mm) - Weight: approx. 1,262 kg (2,783 lb) - Fuel consumption: 14.4 mpg (16.4 L/100 km) combined - Production years: 1957-1963 - Production numbers: 1,400 Roadster models produced - Unique features: Gull-wing doors, alloy body, optional hard top, removable soft top, iconic design.