Known as the African Alloy, a world-famous 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing with a lightweight alloy body will take a starring role at the Arizona Concours d’Elegance on January 22, 2023, at the Scottsdale Civic Center. Just 24 aluminum-bodied Gullwing coupes were produced for 1955, and they are the ultimate production versions of the iconic sports cars, and by far the most valuable.
This example of the Leichtmetallausführung, or Light Metal Version, retains its all-original factory alloy body in Silver Gray Metallic with its matching-numbers 3.0-liter OHC inline-6 engine in high-performance NSL configuration. The 13th alloy-bodied Gullwing built, it is highly unusual in that its body is completely intact and original; most alloy Gullwings were used in competition, and their fragile aluminum skins have had extensive repairs and replacements over the years.
Chassis number 5500332 was delivered to its first owner in Casablanca, Morocco, the only alloy model delivered new on the Africa continent. While it is configured in competition trim, as were all the lightweight models, this example was outfitted by the factory as a road car with comfort and convenience amenities.
In beautifully restored condition, the alloy Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing will stand among a spectacular array of vehicles during the Arizona Concours, which takes place January 22 at its new venue on the grass at the newly renovated Scottsdale Civic Center Mall in Scottsdale, Arizona. Between 80 and 90 specially curated cars ranging from early horseless carriages and pre-war classics to notable sports cars and modern exotics will compete for awards and spectator admiration.
The Arizona Concours is being held in partnership with Scottsdale Arts, with proceeds from the event benefitting local art programs and individual artists. The theme of the 2023 Concours is “The Art of Aerodynamics.”
For more information about tickets, sponsorships and vehicle entries, visit the ArizonaConcours.com website, or see scottsdaleperformingarts.org/event/arizona-concours-delegance.
