1957 Mercedes-Benz 300Sc Coupe

s/n 188014 7500014

Black with Tan Leather Interior

Despite the depressed state of postwar Germany’s economy, Mercedes was able to produce a luxury car of the highest caliber during the 1950’s. In the same vein as the 500K and 540K that preceded it, the 300 series was a world-class touring car that successfully incorporated a blend of opulence, exclusivity, irreproachable build quality, sophisticated technological features, and surprising performance. They were extraordinarily expensive when new (nearly four times as much as a Cadillac in 1955 and twice as much as a 300SL) and in spite of the contemporary unpopularity of all things German in the international community, these cars were able to transcend prejudices because of their inherent superiority. They brought incredible presence, yet were also quite understated, and above all beautifully engineered and built. Most chromed components were made of solid brass, and were test-fitted to cars before even being plated. The interiors were furnished with materials of the highest quality, and fitted luggage and Becker radios often fitted. The cars found a distinguished clientele who appreciated the exclusivity and outstanding quality of the cars, and perhaps even their 110mph plus performance.

In addition to more standard sedan bodies, there were a handful of two-door versions built as well, available as coupes, cabriolets, or roadsters. Earlier models received the designation 300S and were powered by a Solex carbureted version of Mercedes-Benz’s excellent 3 liter overhead valve inline-6. In 1955, the 300S was replaced by the 300Sc, which was substantially the same, but featured tremendous technical advances in the form of a detuned version of the engine from the 300SL, including mechanical fuel injection, dry sump lubrication, and a higher compression ratio. The 300Sc also featured additional chrome trim and “EINSPRITZMOTOR” (fuel-injected engine) badge on the rear bumper, though the car was still badged as a 300S on the trunk lid. The rear axle geometry was also revised to provide improved handling. Thanks to their astronomical cost, just 200 300Sc’s were built between 1955 and 1958, of which 98 were coupes.

This particular coupe is an extremely attractive example that was likely delivered new in Germany. It is fitted with a sunroof, fitted luggage, and the superior European market headlamps. The car has received much recent mechanical work, including $67,525.17 spent in the second half of 2007, less than 200 miles ago, and the receipts are included. This included a comprehensive engine rebuild, which encompassed the fuel injection system, and internal components such as the pistons. The fuel tank was also restored, the steering linkage adjusted, and the interior disassembled and redyed. The brake system was overhauled, including the wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake lines, and shoes. The shock absorbers, sway bar bushings, and exhaust system were also replaced, as were the fuel and water hoses and fluids. The transmission was removed and rebuilt as necessary, as was the shift linkage. The clutch and associated bearings were renewed, and the flex disc replaced as well. The engine and transmission mounts were also replaced, and new tires fitted.

Aside from the sympathetic interior work, the car received no major cosmetic work at this time, since it had been restored previously. The car is currently in very fine shape and its restoration presents as an older restoration to the best standards that remains very nice. The panel fit and gaps are excellent, and the paintwork is high quality and lustrous. There are a few stress cracks about the body in the areas of particularly complex curves. The chrome is nice as well, with some light pitting only. The glass and lamps are excellent.

The interior is also extremely nice, and the leather upholstery is believed to be original. It is in stunning condition considering its age. The wood appears to be original as well and has light patina but is on the whole excellent, as is the remainder of the interior, including the switches, hardware, and trim. The carpets and headliner were both executed in wool and are in wonderful shape. The quality of the materials is first rate, and the operation of the controls reflects the tremendous craftsmanship that made these cars so expensive when they were new. The Becker Mexico radio works well, and even the correct transparent green visors are in place, reflecting the level of detail required of a car that previously competed at such a high level.

The trunk is also reflective of the car’s high level of preparation, with tools, luggage, and an impressive standard of work. The correct rubber matting and wool carpeting to match the interior were installed to very high standards. The original luggage is in fine shape, both inside and out, and is beautiful, even incorporating hangers. A matching monogrammed hat box is included, along with tools, jack, and spare light bulb box.

The engine compartment is in lovely restored shape as well, being both clean and well-detailed. The correct stickers and finishes are applied throughout, and the components are not over-restored. As with the rest of the car, there is an authenticity that this correctness brings so that the car feels much as it must have in the 1950’s or 1960’s, rather than being an overly shiny modern reinterpretation of the original car.

This is an extraordinarily rare opportunity to acquire not just a 300Sc coupe, but a superbly restored, maintained, and equipped example that reflects all of the legendary qualities for which Mercedes is so famous. Its quality, engineering, and thoughtfulness of design are evident everywhere, while its top quality restoration, graceful patina, high level of specification and completeness, and recent mechanical overhaul make this a very special car indeed. It is beautiful, but not so much as to preclude its use with a clear conscience, and the no-expense spared recent mechanical work ensures that it will be a true pleasure for its new owner to use.