1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc

Owner: Johanna White Hosted by: Lockton

The successor to the Mercedes-Benz 300 S, the 300 Sc was produced over a two-year, ten-month period from 1955 to 1958. During this production period, 200 vehicles left the Stuttgart factory in three body options: 98 Coupés, 49 Cabriolets and 53 Roadsters. These were all on the W188 chassis base.

The 300 Sc was the most expensive Mercedes-Benz in 1955, costing £5528; the iconic 300 SL Gullwing was £4392. The 300 Sc, with its 2996cc, produced 175bhp at 5400rpm. This and the Gullwing were the first Mercedes-Benz production models to use mechanical direct fuel-injection.

With the 300 Sc weighing 3924lb, it needed the modified Gullwing engine type M199.980 to propel it to 115mph and from 0-60mph in 14 seconds.

The vehicle on display is unique. It was purchased in 1956, and is still in the same ownership some 68 years and 48,000 miles later. It is one of the rarest post-war Mercedes-Benz vehicles, being one of only 49, and is believed to be the only one-owner, unrestored 300 Sc Cabriolet in existence. The owner has the original receipt, for just over £4000 plus in excess of £2000 in taxes. This example was also used to create Corgi’s diecast model.

Power: 173bhp | Top speed: 115mph | 0-60mph: 14 seconds