The 300SL roadster model’s 3.0-liter M198 inline-six was carried over from the fixed-roof variant and shares its canted orientation, Bosch mechanical direct fuel injection, dry-sump lubrication, and aluminum cylinder head. The competition camshaft that was optional on the coupe was made standard for the roadster, which also gained a dual point/dual coil ignition system and various fuel system refinements. This example’s fuel injection system was overhauled in 2006 by RPM, with work including a rebuild of the injection pump and the installation of remanufactured injectors. Engine work at that time included the replacement of the front and rear main seals, repairs to the water jacket cover, an inspection of the crankshaft, and cosmetic freshening. The radiator was repaired in 2011, at which time various hoses were replaced.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via an all-synchromesh four-speed manual transmission that was resealed in 2006 and a 3.89:1-ratio rear end. The roadster’s four-wheel independent suspension utilizes a single-pivot rear axle with a compensator spring for improved stability over the coupe’s double-pivot design.
Engine number 198980-10-002591 is shown stamped on the block and engine tag above.
The Mercedes-Benz Classic Zertifikat lists the original colors, component numbers, and options as well as the original delivery date. Included in the sale is a notebook with hand-written fuel and maintenance logs dating between 1963 and 1974 and showing mileage between 10,950 and 25,716.
The ivory-color steering wheel and matching shift knob were replaced during the refurbishment, and the former sits ahead of VDO instrumentation including a 160-mph speedometer, a 7k-rpm tachometer, and a rectangular combination gauge with English lettering.
The five-digit odometer shows 31k miles.
