The Mercedes-Benz 300SL was introduced in 1954 with distinctive gull-wing doors. It was the fastest production car of its day and was based on the company's highly successful competition sports car of 1952. Intended for US customers in the booming post-war market, it was introduced at the 1954 New York Auto Show. The 300 referred to the engine's three liter cylinder displacement and SL stood for Sport Leicht (sport light). The 300SL was best known for both its distinctive gull wing doors as well as being the first gasoline-powered car equipped with direct fuel injection. The 300SL Gull Wing was produced from 1955 to 1957 and more than 80% of the car's total production was sold in the US. The 300SL is credited for changing the company's image in America. The 300SL's body was mainly steel, except for the aluminum hood, doors and trunk lid. The engine, canted left to lower the hood, was a 3.0 liter inline six, fitted with a Bosch mechanical direct fuel injection system. This innovation allowed a top speed of 161 mph. Today, the 300SL is considered one of the most collectible Mercedes-Benz models of all time, with prices reaching well past $650,000.
Schuco is a legendary German toy manufacturer, founded in 1912. The company achieved worldwide fame with its toy cars manufactured in the '30s, '40s and '50s, many of which were patented. While Schuco continues to issue a limited number of metal retro-toys for collectors, today the company is better known for its amazing diecast vehicle replicas. Working directly with manufacturers and car collectors, Schuco painstakingly re-creates each vehicle in miniature, often incorporating tiny details only visible with a magnifying glass. Most Schuco models are issued in specified limited quantities, and once gone, will not be made again. That’s why wise collectors know that a Schuco model isn’t just a purchase: It’s an investment with a lifetime return of enjoyment. Buy it now
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