Could these be the Best in Show winners at the upcoming Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance in Florida? Probably not, but they're pretty cool.
Florida's Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance arguably remains the finest automotive event on the East Coast - running from today through March 10. For this year's event, amid the plethora of pristine exotica and polished rarities, we would suggest that you track down two particular Mercedes-Benz vehicles. They may appear rough, but looks can be deceiving...
Presented on the Concours Field will be a pair of Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing" examples in their own exhibit area. Not only are these two cars an absolute dream for any collector, they have successive chassis numbers – 43 and 44. Both vehicles have been given the restoration treatment by Mercedes-Benz Classic.
Restored in 2018 and showcased in “barn find” condition, chassis number 43 was originally shipped to Miami in 1954, and was only registered for 10 years. Everything about this car is completely original - the body, glass, leather interior, drivetrain, wheels, and special "Englebert Competition” tires are exactly what you would find on the vehicle when new.
The finish of the body is the only thing changed. Originally painted a radiant shade of blue, the paintwork was then sanded down and primed before progress stalled. The paint went unfinished until Mercedes' recent restoration.
Chassis number 44 was restored to the condition it boasted some five decades ago, and features handcrafted components like the Mercedes-Benz star, exhaust manifold, valve cover with magnesium paint, and gooseneck style gearshift lever.
As stated by Mercedes, “The Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance is one of the most glamorous events for classic automobiles and has a lot to offer. Each year, the finest cars from all over the world are parked on a well-groomed lawn directly off the Atlantic coast and judged in different categories by a team of jurors. A "Best of Show" award is one of the most prestigious available.”
Check back with Motorious throughout the weekend to find out which car will receive the “Best of Show” title.
