The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR "Uhlenhaut Coupé"
This coupé version of the 300 SLR racing car was developed by Daimler-Benz for the 1956 season, and only two 300 SLR Coupes were constructed. It was designed under the supervision of the then head of the MB racing car department, Rudolf Uhlenhaut and the nickname "Uhlenhaut Coupé" is a reminder of this today. It was never used in racing because Mercedes Benz withdrew from motorsport after the end of the season in 1955. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR is still one of the most spectacular and expensive super sports cars ever built, and way ahead of its time.
8 Cylinders | Displacement 2982 liters | Output 302 hp @ 7500 rpm | Top speed 290 km/h (180 mph) | Production period: 1955
Mercedes-Benz and the design of the enclosed product are subject to intellectual property owned by Daimler AG and are used by LEMKE Collection GmbH under license.
What is the difference between this 300 SLR racer and theMercedes 300 SL gullwing "street car"?
They both have gullwing doors, intricate tubular frames, and may seem very similar. But look at the bodies and you will see the 300 SLR racer has a more streamlined and sculpted body, a meshed air intake in the hood, a tubular racing exhaust that exits the right side of the car, no bumpers, and many other detail differences. Under the skin they diverge even more, the 300 SLR being based on the W196 GP racer using a straight 8 cylinder engine vs 6 cylinders in the 300 SL, racing style inboard brakes and 16 inch wire wheels. More explanation below in scans from a great reference book we can provide.
One final detail: only two Mercedes 300 SLR Coupes were ever produced, compared to 1400 of the 300 SL gullwing street cars.
One final detail: only two Mercedes 300 SLR Coupes were ever produced, compared to 1400 of the 300 SL gullwing street cars.