Reviving Racing Royalty: The Legendary 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Driven by Stirling Moss
Few race cars command reverence like the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR piloted by Sir Stirling Moss to a record-shattering victory at Italy’s brutal Mille Miglia. Recently, Mercedes-Benz meticulously restored this automotive icon – chassis number “722” – to its original glory. Here’s why this piece of motorsport royalty still captivates enthusiasts and what it means for classic car collectors today.
The Mille Miglia Masterpiece: Speed, Strategy & Stirling Moss
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Record-Breaking Run: In 1955, Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson conquered 1,000 miles of Italian roads in 10 hours, 7 minutes, and 48 seconds – an average speed of 99 mph (160 km/h), unheard of on public roads.
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Engineering Brilliance: The SLR’s 3.0L straight-8 engine produced 310 horsepower, paired with a featherlight magnesium-alloy body. Its signature “gullwing” exhaust pipes reduced backpressure while creating an unforgettable roar.
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The “722” Legacy: The number signified Moss’s 7:22 AM start time. Today, it symbolizes racing perfection.
The Painstaking Restoration: Resurrecting a Relic
After decades in storage, Mercedes’ Classic Center undertook a 3-year, frame-off restoration:
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Authenticity First: Original paint traces were analyzed to remix the iconic Silberpfeil (Silver Arrow) hue.
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Handcrafted Revival: Skilled artisans rebuilt the hand-formed bodywork, period-correct Dunlop tires, and signature leather bonnet straps.
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Functional Faithfulness: The engine now runs flawlessly while preserving original components like the riveted fuel tank.
Why This Legend Matters for Modern Classic Car Buyers
The 300 SLR’s revival underscores timeless truths for classic car collectors:
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Provenance is Priceless: Moss’ ownership skyrockets its value. Documentation matters – always request history files when buying vintage models.
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Preservation Pays: Unlike modified “restomods,” original-spec classics like the SLR appreciate most.
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Rarity Rules: Just 9 SLR coupes exist. Scarcity drives collectibility.
→ Explore Iconic German Engineering: Browse our curated used Mercedes-Benz inventory for modern heirs to the SLR legacy.
Where to Witness the 300 SLR Today
View this masterpiece at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, alongside Moss’ handwritten race notes and Jenkinson’s innovative route scroll – a pilgrimage for motorsport fans.
Final Thought: Legends Live On
The 300 SLR isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to human ingenuity and courage. As Moss himself said: “It’s about the challenge, the concentration, and pushing machinery to its edge.” That spirit lives in every great driver’s car – past or present.
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