Our 300b now glows after heavy color sanding/polishing and installation of restored wheel covers, a $1,500 investment. Blackwall tires complete the period look and take us back to 1954.

Dash reassembly for the 250SE coupe is a tedious affair. We've reconditioned each item that goes back in place - gauges, clock, temp levers, radio etc. Restored dash will glow. New seat leather, new carpets and carefully dyed original dash pads/door panels are ready for installation.

Our Euro SLC is now in the east coast. Sans bumpers and with the unique covers installed, the Icon Gold SLC takes on a tougher stance. Cosmetics recovered remarkably well after an aggressive color sand and polish. We'll miss this muscular 5.0 liter SLC.

Had the car remained in our inventory, the next step would have been short, progressive rate springs and a set of spot lights to complete the look. We're already after another 5.0 liter, a late series 1980 500SLC.

Recently rescued from a barn and now running superbly after a $7,500 mechanical rebuild, our unmolested 200D is a great 111 sedan find. Thankfully, no one altered this car from its original specification. Dead paint will be left alone.

Moderately weathered but completely original interior will be massaged as best possible. Panel fit and closure is as good as the day it was originally sold. However, dry door seals prompt massive door rattles while the diesel idles. We love the overall patina.

Burlingame Motors' brain trust Rene Wiegand and Al Salas attend to one of the most original Cabriolets in the country.

What does the 'Plush Green Fabric' interior look like? It appears much like a sofa from the '30s. It's remarkably intact however and creates a comfy environment. Wood is excellent and a radio was never installed. We'll make this unique 300 glow.

Trial fit of the rear bumper finisher gives an idea of the final look. Once the corner pieces are fitted, the tail will have a clean purposeful look. And we save at least 100lbs by not fitting the bumpers. Large rear exit exhaust pipes fit nicely.

Our side exhaust system was unbearably loud. A nice full length system with minimal restriction gives the alloy 5.0 liter a nice bellow but is not obnoxious.

There's not much left to restore in the interior of our coupe. We'll make sure all the firewall plugs are secure to prevent any unnecessary engine noise/heat from entering the interior. We might install some dyna mat as well to aid refinement.

The freshly restored main instrument binnacle is perfection. Madera Concepts performed their magic once again. It's up to us to not damage the gorgeous pieces during installation.

1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Mayfair Roadster Special Roadster.

1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 Presidential Landaulet

1939 Mercedes-Benz S Erdmann & Rossi Cabriolet. Unusual coachwork featuring many styling ques later found in the 500/540K cars.

1936 Mercedes-Benz 290 Cabriolet A. You see all the 500/540k styling cues in this 290. It appears much as a 7/10s scale 540k roadster.

1956 Mercedes-Benz 300Sc Cabriolet.

1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. This is the best of the best in a 300SL roadster - last year, disc brakes, alloy block and an extensive group of accessories and documentation. The Frank and Beverly Spellman roadster.

The Spellman roadster deserves another look.

1928 Mercedes-Benz S Murphy Roadster. This car was sold last year at Gooding almost to the day in unrestored condition for north of $3m. Now in black with nickel plated brightwork, the hot rod S looks smashing.

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing.

1939 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster.

1922 Mercedes 28/95 HP Targa Florio Race car.

1929 Mercedes-Benz S Tourer.

1943 Mercedes-Benz 770K Pullmann Limousine. Thomas Taffet purchased this 770K - the last 770 constructed - post sale last year at Gooding and embarked on a full restoration, a super human effort in just 365 days.

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. This was one of the first Gullwing entrusted to the European press corps. The legendary Bill Boddy was one such scribe.

1927 Mercedes-Benz S Rennwagen.

1915 Mercedes 28/60 HP Towncar.

1929 Mercedes-Benz S Erdmann & Rossi Cabriolet.

1904 Mercedes 28/32 HP Rear Entrance Tonneau.

1911 Benz 200 HP "Blitzen Benz."

1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL noted in the catalogue as an alloy(?) Roadster.

1931 Mercedes-Benz 370S Mannheim Cabriolet(?)

1929 Mercedes-Benz 710 SS Touringwagen.

1934 Mercedes-Benz 380K Zapon Roadster.

1928 Mercedes-Benz SS Tourenwagan.

1908 Mercedes-Benz 150 HP Race Car.

1927 Mercedes-Benz SSK Open Two Seater.

1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. The first MB painted (467)tunis beige!

1906 Mercedes 120 HP Grand Prix.

1908 Benz Grand Prix.

1911 Mercedes 50 HP Maythorn Five Passenger Tourer.

The year's poster car, the Moss/Jenks SLR may never travel abroad again. We hear it will rest safely and permanently in Germany due to its massive value.

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The author's simple but spotless 280SE sedan lines up next to some heavyweights. Grey skies prevailed most of the day.

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Keith Morgan attends to his class 4 winning 1971 300SEL 3.5. His air suspension 109 series sedan is fairly rare with only 3,225 units constructed in 1971.

Pat Matthews' gorgeous and highly original 300Sc coupe took 2nd place honors in Class 2. Only a handful of these fuel injected 188 series coupes were constructed.

Carole Osselaer's tobacco brown 1972 350SL captured 1st place in class 3/5. When will these early 107 SLs finally become collectible?

As a Fintail addict, I would kill to own Pat Matthews' amazing 4 speed 230S Fintail. Remarkably original in every respect - except the newly fitted 15' Universal wheels - and fitted with a floor mounted 4-spd and sunroof, it's one special Fin. It placed 2nd in class 4.

One of my favorites at the show, this restored 0319 kombi was spectacular in every respect. The result of an expensive decade-long restoration, this gem was a welcome relief to the usual Mercedes-Benz fare at the show.

Peter Thomas looks justifiably satisfied with the most audacious and expensive rig at this year's Legends. The 194 re-creation was secretly constructed over 5 years on a cost no object basis. It's a masterpiece of fabrication. The blue Renntransporter was originally commissioned by Mercedes-Benz to replace the original it crushed in 1967. Both are for sale from MercedesHeritage.com.

Steve Ross' always in vogue Champagne (473) 560SL captured 2nd place in class 3/5. 560SLs are always in style and MercedesHeritage.com has 3 in stock.

Legends at the Legends: l-r: Sammy Rad, Eli Benhamo, Wally Buch and Pat Matthews. A serial Mercedes-Benz hunter, Sammy R. bought the Golf Club gardener's 280SE low-grille coupe after spying it in the parking lot!

Another favorite of mine, this light custom Gullwing is always a nice diversion from the politically correct restored Gullwings. With lots of chrome, candy burgundy paint and other subtle modifications, this Rudge wheel GW makes quite an impression.

The meticulous Wally Buch (in the tan hat) chats all things Mercedes next to his spotless black (040)/tan roadster. Nary a bolt has been left unturned in his effort to fully sort his SL.

Will Clark surveys the proceedings next to his Rudge wheel 300SL roadster.

The Chad and Barbara Hunt Gullwing.

A contrarian hit at the show was this road warrior quasi AMG retro 300SEL 3.5. Owner Udo Putzke bought the car for $500 and 'personalized' it extensively. Legends will have to create a new class next year to accommodate this wild 108 sedan.

It was a fine day for Jeff Lotman and restorer Jurgen Klockemman. Lotman's freshly body-off restored 1961 Roadster picked up 1st place in class 1.

Bronze and black 2-tone 111 3.5 sunroof coupe.

This creme 300S coupe was an interesting addition as it exuded an comfortable patina. I'm not so sure this is a correct period color.

Bob Buckter stands proudly next to his attractive two-tone 1960 220SE cabriolet. The color scheme was specially conceived by Bob, a professional colorist.

Pat Matthews' glorious deep blue 300Sc roadster sits next to his maroon Sc cabriolet.

Moss Green 280SL.

The epitome of middle '50s elegant and reasonably rapid continental transportation, Pat Matthews' stunning 300Sc Cabriolet glows even under grey skies. It won the People's Choice award.

Frank Pecarich's 1967 250SE coupe?

Guy, Loyda and Rose Lewis from Pinecrest, FL showed the dazzling Papayrus White 1972 SWB 600. Fully restored and noted to be Luciano Pavarotti's transport while touring in the US, this late series 600 is one of only 172 SWBs constructed in 1971.

Concours quality wood restoration for any Mercedes-Benz.

The Cantore Family of Oakbrook, IL showed this ex-Hugh Hefner 1972 Pullman. Hefner purchased this car new. What carnal pleasures did Hef enjoy in the back of this LWB? Hydraulic seats, divider window, a bar, curtains and remote radio controls - the possibilities (and bunnies) were unlimited!

Mercedes Classic Center displayed the rarely seen 1965 four-door Pullman Landaulet constructed for Pope Paul Vl. A one-off, this Landaulet features a raised roofline, extended rear doors and a raised platform for the Pope to wave to his subjects. This 600 was used by the Vatican for two decades, serving three popes. I doubt any of them had as much fun as Hef did in the sumptuous rear quarters of his.

The Utaskis displayed this gorgeous if showy 1960 300SL with hardtop and luggage. SL detectives will recognize this car as "Old Blue Eyes," a celebrated barn find circa 2008. Purchased new on Park Ave, New York City, the blue roadster was a gift from father to daughter, a sophomore at Vasser College. The gift was to persuade her to remain in college. I think I'd have hung around and graduated if presented with a new roadster in 1960. A 'dead-on' restoration would have included body color wheels and whitewall tires.

Wellington and Janet Morton showed this 1954 Gullwing, the 60th 300SL constructed. Early cars such as this were fitted with welting between the wheel arch "eyebrows" and coachwork. This early car was also fitted with the stylish "concave" grille star. The Morton's Gullwing is noted as showing but 50k miles on the odometer.

The rarest Pagoda on the planet, Pininfarina's 230SL fixed head coupe styling exercise made a rare appearance in Florida. Designed by Tom Tjaarda, this tasteful interpretation of an early Pagoda embodies a number of detail touches found on cars from one of Sergio Pininfarina's other clients: Ferrari. Note the thin pillars and airy greenhouse.

Pininfarina's 230SL deserves another look and this shot reveals the extended nose and forward angled grille shell. Thankfully, after being red and then black over the years, current owner Weston Hook(?) commissioned Hjeltness Restorations to return the car to it's original Silver. Did Tjaarda improve on the original Paul Bracq design?

Bruce Iannelli brought his one-off 300c wagon for everyone to enjoy. This opulent Binz bodied 300 was sold last year during RM's Amelia Island auction for $242,000. Like the Utaski 300SL, this project began with a special order from MBZ's Park Avenue, New York City dealership. Fabulous!

This end-of-series fuel injected 300d is resplendent in deep red. With "B" posts and rear quarter lights removed, this Adenauer becomes a stylish hardtop sedan. 3077 examples were constructed from 1957 through 1962.

Regal 1961 300d Convertible D has presence in spades, particularly in this color trim combination. Unloved by its original owner due to regular breakdowns, she had seven full size lemons painted inside the trunk lid. Perhaps this massive convertible stranded her and her horse trailer seven times. The lemons remain.

The Kemp Auto Museum provided this rakish 1931 370S Mannheim Sport. Impressive in its day, the 3.7 liter fitted with twin side-draft Solex carburetors provided barely 78 hp.

Provided by the Cantore Family, this spectacular 500K Cabriolet A was on display in the Mercedes Classic Center's enclosure. Abandoned in the North African desert during the WW2, it was discovered in 1945 and brought to the US by General Walter B. Smith. Typifying the long hood, short tail design ethos of the era, the 500K and its successor the 540K were and remain revered road cars. Note the position of grille shell - well behind the front axle line.

Best of Show for 2011? Duesenbergs won the day in 2011. Best of show in the sport arena was the outrageous yellow 1933 "Mormon Meteor." Ab Jenkins piloted this beast to a number of speed records at Bonneville. Best of show for a vehicle of elegance went to the 1933 Duesenberg SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan also known as the "Twenty Grand." The 20G Deusy still looks stunning 30 years since its restoration. These two bigger than life automobiles exemplify the post-depression golden age of the automobile.

1969 Mercedes 280SL Red/Tan leather lot #377 Chassis No. 11304412011319: Was originally the lovely 834 Moss Green, replacement hood, door/deck lid hinge bolts unpainted, replacement firewall pad, superb paint depth and gloss, nice panel fit, weathered older restored leather interior, replacement rear body 'light' panel, trunk floor rust holes patched, incorrect tools, sold in 1990 for $48.5k. SOLD for $63,250. A typical 280SL auction scenario: cosmetics that fairly glowed and an interior that was consistent and attractive combined with collision repairs only the savvy SL buyer would detect. The discerning 'Pagoda' buyer would ignore this car. However, there are many buyers who simply want an attractive 280SL for Sunday cruises and have no interest in making their purchase a research project. Unmolested 280Sls are very difficult to find today so this car was a convenient but 20%+ overpriced acquisition for the new owner. We can offer an untouched, fully sorted 1970 280SL for about $10k less, not as shiny and bright, but a spectacular, virtually unobtainable 'survivor' example.

1961 Mercedes 300SL Silver/Blue Lot #374 Chassis No. 19804210002869: Polished wheels, below average door fit, fitted with an alternator, Hjeltness installed AC, bulging door panels, poor headlight bezel fit, lightly pitted chrome, loose soft top, removable center console containing modern radio, flexible household tubing behind one jack point opening - a driver: SOLD for $522,000. Contrary to the catalogue's note of the car being resprayed in 'factory-original silver,' our database shows this car to have been originally 534 red and subsequently ivory before the current silver respray. Were this car not fitted with disc brakes, I'd say $522k was steep for a roadster with these cosmetic shortcomings. Factory disc brakes are a great equalizer and add about $50k to a roadster's value. Only 478 roadsters were so equipped. I suppose if the car performs as the catalogue suggests, it was fairly bought.

1957 300SL Red/Cognac lot #319 Chassis No. 1980427500131: Tidy street driven engine bay, poor headlight bezel fit, completely incorrect latter '60s era cognac leather interior, missing door sill trim, good paint depth and gloss, very poor fuel filler door fit, generally pitted chrome, overspray RF wheel, - a driver with an incorrect interior. SOLD for $440,000. The thin catalogue description went far to establish this car's value. Originally a 534 red car with black interior. I see possibilities, however, after a fresh black interior and minor fit and finish improvements. At a $82k below the silver car above, I'd say the car was fairly priced.

1958 190SL Silver/Red lot #379 Chassis No. 1210408501571: Originally a 180 Silver car, rust blisters left fender top, poor bumper alignment, frozen heater valves, hood binds on the nose, inconsistent chrome, very poor panel fit, incorrect floor patch panels, a great color combination, unrestored hard top provided and shipped at the buyer's expense. SOLD for $77,000: According to the catalogue this 190SL was 'beautifully restored' and with '100 miles since restoration.' This was a lot of rubbish and potentially misled the buyer. Based on the restoration photo journal proudly displayed on the front seat, the donor car was extremely rusty and required massive metal sectioning and rust repair. This was photographic history better left at home. The work described was poorly done and I noted the car '87% completed.' The buyer will have a heart attack if he/she finds out Gooding's spectacular ivory 190SL sold for just $8,800 more. This silver car will require this amount and more to be considered finished. Occasionally a car will slip by an auction management's scrutiny and this was certainly one of those situations. The description and the quality of the car simply did not remotely coincide. I'd say the buyer overpaid by about 40%. This car was another reminder to be your own advocate when buying at auction. If you can't quickly evaluate the car you are interested in, find someone who can.

1952 300 Cabriolet D Black/Red Lot #313 Chassis No. 1860140112052: An older restoration (20 years ago), nice paint depth and gloss, good street level chrome, LR door binds, re-trimmed interior with a comfortable patina, tidy undercarriage, stainless steel exhaust, clean engine bay, Missouri inspection sticker, fully trimmed trunk with incorrect velour, missing air cleaner covers: SOLD for $115,500. This convertible sedan presented itself fairly well and with only 591 300/300b convertibles constructed, you will never have a wide selection available. The loose ends here are fairly easy to correct and the result will be an enjoyable cruiser for about $125k - A fair deal on both sides.

1955 300SL Red/Tan Lot #320 Chassis No. 5500712: Originally 180 silver with 333 blue leather, delivered new to Lisbon Portugal, luggage, interior/luggage showing a nice comfortable patina of age, gas pedal wired to the throttle linkage(!), excellent paint depth and gloss, period Talbot mirrors, incorrect padded head/door liner material, Becker LeMans radio, matching engine #5500739, full belly pans, average panel fit, Oklahoma inspection sticker from 1979. SOLD for $550,000. I liked this Gullwing and, like the catalogue, felt the some of the interior could be nicely preserved and original. The luggage looked to be original. Our database proved otherwise. It still bewilders me why so many of these - and so many other classic Mercedes - are color changed to red. To my eyes, red has never flattered a Gullwing. However, this was a nicely equipped car that presented itself well and if it performs as the catalogue suggests was fairly bought.

LOt #371: 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Cabriolet Chassis 130913: Restored in Indiana circa 2005 and still looking rather crisp, lovely paint and coachwork, superb chrome, undercarriage shows evidence of use and not concours ready, gorgeous interior and wood. SOLD for $913,000. We turned to our friend and prewar Mercedes expert Thomas Taffet for his comments on this sale. He felt the unusual coachwork betrayed any open 540K's profile, regardless of Cab A/B/C configuration. Hiding the 540K's V shaped radiator shell was quite a sin in Taffet's opinion and mutes what should be one of the 540K's most dramatic styling features. A point well taken because upon casually approaching this car one could confuse it for a LeBaron bodied Packard of the same era. Taffet, the purist, recons the $913k paid was massive money for car in a coachwork style not befitting one of the 419 540K chassis constructed.

1971 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet 728 Beige Grey Metallic/Brown leather lot #119 Chassis No. 11102712000808. New front seat trim against attractive and largely original remaining leather, mis-aligned hood safety latch damaged preventing the hood from closing, an attractive and rare exterior color, new carpet, original door panels and dash pads, recent top and headliner, nice trunk floor, good panel fit, good street quality chrome, minor bumper misalignment, 52,253 miles showing, column automatic, clean undercarriage, original hydro compensator replaced with coil spring: SOLD for $165,000. I was offered this car twelve months ago 90% finished for about $125k. Scott Grundfor started this car and Jurgen Klockemann finished it. The misc loose ends could be solved for $5k which puts the buyer at $170k. The auction was the winner here skimming $30k via the buyer's/seller's fees. This was a $135k 3.5 Cabriolet. There are dozens of these cars on the market today - 11 available on MercedesHeritage.com alone - and $165k should buy a more consistent car, either a superb original or a fairly recently restored car. Well sold although Klockemann did not benefit much from the total price realized.

1961 300SL White Grey/Green leather lot #116 Chassis No. 198.042.10002637: Originally 423 tobacco brown with saddle leather, noted as the only 300SL sold in Alaska, not much to be said regarding condition beyond fresh from a three year Rudi Koniczek restoration of a 47k mile car. Spectacular in every respect, European headlamps, fabulous non-original color/trim combination, factory hard top a slightly different shade of white gray, non-numbered alloy replacement long block, luggage, manuals, a very late drum brake car. SOLD for $632,500. The price is fairly easy to figure out. Rudi charges about $300k to restore a roadster. A dead but complete roadster is $275k-$325k. Do the math and you get to the low $600k range for a finished car. Properly bought and sold.

1956 190SL Ivory/Tan lot #153 Engine No. 121.921.6502711: Undated restoration by Rich Spillane and still looking gorgeous, yellow period CA license plates, period Judson supercharger with Judson insignia on rear body panel, Original carbs supplied, excellent panel fit, very clean undercarriage although in satin black, spotless engine bay, originally 534 red, original factory hard top supplied and noted 'completely original' and 'matches the rest of the car,' a lovely 190SL. SOLD for $85,800. Despite some errors in the description - I noted a paint code number 534 (fire engine red) on the firewall tag which does not support the claim of 'Factory Color Combination' - this was a superb 190SL. The color change is a moot point as the car presented itself so well in Ivory. The car just glowed in Gooding's tent. The buyer will be well advised to tread lightly on the throttle as the supercharger will stress the 190SL's feeble bottom end. $80k and up is what it takes to buy a highly prepared 190SL and I call this a fair deal for both buyer and seller.

2008 SLR Convertible lot #21 Galaxite Black Metallic/Red leather Chassis No. WDDAK76F08M001713: One CA owner car, recently serviced, essentially a new SLR Roadster: SOLD for $253,000. The last new 2008 SLR sold by a local SF bay area dealer fetched $285k or so. These roadsters had a base MSRP of $465,350 so this car seems a good buy at a 45% discount from new. With the new $200k SLS Gullwing stealing every magazine cover, I'd call $253k top retail. SLR buyers have been very hard to find for some years. Well sold.

1955 300SL Gullwing Silver/Red leather lot #35 Chassis No. 198.040.5500533: Ex '50s Italian racing driver Umberto Maglioli, rudge wheels, Nardi steering wheel, average door fit, no bumper guards, no belly pans, fitted luggage, some micro blistering on the passenger door, no radio, driver's door drain slots filled, older high quality restoration by Thomas Taffet, recent $26k service, probable 72k miles. SOLD for $715,000. This Gullwing had all the ingredients; a glamorous original owner, custodianship by Lothar Motschenbacher, restoration by Thomas Taffet, rudge wheels, excellent color/trim combination and a recent technical preparation. This was fair money for a milestone Gullwing.

1937 540K Sport Cabriolet A lot #122 Chassis No. 154084: body off $400k restoration performed 1997-1999, freshened up by Scott Grundfor for Pebble Beach 2008, current owner enlisted Grundfor to remove the bulky convertible top mechanism and create a smooth tonneau fitted over the top aperture, spare tire well covered, paint and coachwork still essentially spotless, very tidy undercarriage, all parts to reverse the modifications included in the sale, superb chrome, a prewar icon albeit slightly modified. SOLD for $2,145,000. Again, we turn to Thomas Taffet for comments. Altering any 540K is a serious crime for Taffet. He knew this car's recent history well, noting after being restored in Germany, it sold for $1.1m at RM circa 2002. Taffet was horrified to see the 'ungainly' convertible top having been removed and replaced with a smooth tonneau. At $2.145m, he considers the car very well sold.

1928 S 26/180 Boattail Speedster lot #127 Chassis No. 35313: Highly unusual speedster coachwork by Murphy Coachbuilders in Pasadena, CA, 6.8 liter supercharged eight, seen in the film Sylvia Scarlett starring Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant, sold to Zeppo and Chico Marx, raced against Hollywood agent Phil Berg's stripped Duesenberg in the infamous Muroc dry lakes challenge, languished on a used car lot in Los Angeles in 1951 priced at $2,000, modified over the years before being returned to its Muroc race configuration, fabulous patina. SOLD for $3,740,000. My jaw dropped when I first saw this extraordinary car at the 2009 Marin Sonoma concours. The blend of '20s Mercedes-Benz technology and southern California Hot Rod design is captivating. Murphy created a Mercedes S Highboy. I doubt if many concours attendees that day understood this car. Displayed at Goodings sans its fenders and with its less than harmonious vertical windscreen folded down, the Marx S sat proudly atop a raised platform. Presented at auction uniformly weathered, the S is now fully functional with its gearbox recently rebuilt by Phil Reilly and company. This car's story is hard to eclipse: a piece of Hollywood lore, appearance in a golden era film, a rare Mercedes supercharged S, famous actor ownership history, largely original, one of one. Prewar Mercedes expert, Thomas Taffet, was not so excited about this tatty supercharged S and pegged its value closer to $1.5m. Citing ugly coachwork and distressed cosmetics, Taffet pointed me towards Bonham's SS Sports Tourer as a far more compelling latter '20s supercharged Mercedes. The buyer of the Marx car felt otherwise, however, and attached a further $2m+ in value for the car's extraordinarily unique history. I'll have to consider the Marx car very well sold.

1952 300 Sedan Bordeaux/Creme leather lot #630 Chassis # 00578/52: Noted as restored in 2000 and freshened up in 2006, obviously a body off restored sedan, immaculate paint and coachwork, excellent chrome, no bumper guards, lovely restored interior showing subtle patina of use, superb wood, no radio, very clean engine bay showing signs of light use, spotless undercarriage, tools and jack noted in catelogue description, a gorgeous early 300 sedan. SOLD for $60,840. With it's understated colors and generally sober lines, it was easy ignore this 300. A closer look revealed likely one of the nicest examples in the US. Restored to a level generally reserved for its 2 door brothers, this regal sedan would be a satisfying and supremely comfortable Mercedes Club tour and event car. You couldn't duplicate the car for $100k. Comprehensively restoring a 300 sedan is financial suicide. I would say well bought and applaud the individual who had the courage and funds to prepare a 300 to this level. Well done!

1968 600 SWB Tobacco Brown/Cognac, Black top lot #645 Chassis #10001212001196: 88k miles showing, not coded as a two-tone paint car, tidy engine bay, suspension sitting low when inspected 24 hours post sale, misc left front fender bolts missing, nice street level chrome, Colorado plates, interior partially dyed, generally dry burlwood, sun baked package panel, heavy hydraulic fluid leak right rear door window valve, nice panel fit and gaps, excellent paint depth and gloss, loose front bumper section, stainless steel exhaust, left side exhaust low and missing hangers, recent transmission/water pump rebuild and service. SOLD for $47,900. I feel any 600 that is not spot on technically and cosmetically should be rather inexpensive. Reconditioning costs for seemingly benign improvements are usually jaw-dropping. I've written those checks over the years. As I looked at this 600, I began to see a fundamentally sound car with promise. Sorting the low suspension and other misc. loose ends will absorb a further $20k putting the buyer's investment at close to $70k. He or she will be reasonably close to the car's retail value, perhaps $10k above. Not a bad buy if the 600 market continues on the same trajectory for the immediate future.

1961 300SL Light Blue/Tan lot #651 Chassis #198-042-10-002619: European headlamps, noted to have been returned to the factory in 1971 for restoration and restored again by Scott Restorations in 1989 with records of both restorations on hand, still looking very crisp, fitted luggage, no information in our database, excellent panel fit and shutlines, hardtop provided, very clean and correct engine bay, an eye-popping roadster. SOLD for $612,000 This car was likely a post block sale. When I arrived to inspect Saturday morning after the sale the car was being shown to an obviously interested buyer, hence I was not able to inspect more carefully. While finished in a generally low demand color, the car presented itself very nicely with the older restoration still looking sharp. We'll presume the light blue was correct to the car as most owners will never color change a car to this color. I'd say this was a fair deal if not slightly well sold due to the soft demand color.

1930 38/250 SS Sports Tourer lot #640 Chassis #36257: Delivered new April 11, 1930 to the UK, fabulous documented history, last owner from 1955, stored from middle '50s to middle '90s, recently re-commissioned and running and driving well, 7.1 liter supercharged straight eight, highly original and never fully restored, wonderful patina. SOLD for $2,537,000. Again we note comments by Thomas Taffet. He felt this car was a far more interesting proposition than the Marx 'S' sold by Gooding and reviewed earlier in this article. So interesting that Taffet was an interested potential buyer so we'll consider this car well bought.

Pat Matthews' glorious - and with only 53 constructed exceedingly rare - 300Sc Roadster was an early arrival.

Bruce Canepa (Canapa Design, Scotts Valley CA) can always be relied on to display a showstopper. His 1962 Black/Black Roadster featured some rare factory options: 6" wheels, 3.23 final drive ratio and high compression engine. Bruce noted the car produced 190hp at the rear wheels on the chassis dyno. Pathetic in today's world, 190hp is serious power for a roadster. Canepa was coy about the price, noting it was sold for north of $700k. Look at the razor sharp reflections in the door and front fenders - a result of precise metal preparation.

Jim Morris performed most of the restoration on his 1959 220S Convertible himself. 14" wheels - 220s were originally fitted with 13" wheels - aid drivability by effectively raising the final drive ratio.

Gerry Holzapple's understated 173 Grey 280SL is a blend of largely original interior and fresh chrome adorning bare metal resprayed coachwork

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A 280SL presented in a most unusual color/trim combination. Craig Hartman's Moss Green/Green full leather 280SL is gorgeous and correct. Green on Green! One of my favorites and a car I restored some years ago prior to selling to Craig.

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Who in their right mind would fully restore a 220SE sedan? Pat Matthews! He saved what is quite a rare ponton sedan, 1 of the 1,974 fuel injected examples. How many had sunroofs?. Probably less than 100. This sedan is indeed a rare car.

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Byron and Myra Brill's 1971 280SE 3.5 is finished in Midnight Blue(904) with Parchment leather, a rich and desirable combination. Proper 3.5 Cabriolets easily bring $100k+ today and deservedly so. A well sorted example is a comfortable, quick and eminently usable classic today.

Greg Hubit managed to snag this extraordinary low grille 280SE Cabriolet out from under the noses of a number of SF Bay area enthusiasts including this editor. It is also an original Moss Green/Green leather car - like Greg Hartman's 280SL a few cars above - and fitted with a green soft top. It showed only 16k miles(!) on the odometer when he purchased it a few years ago. It is certainly one of the lowest mileage, original 111 chassis convertibles in existence. I'm still depressed at missing this car.

The heavyweight of the Mercedes-Benz on display, Arturo Keller

Who in their right mind would fully restore a 220SE coupe? Pat Matthews! These cozy coupes were largely hand crafted by Mercedes-Benz and cost twice as much as the base six cylinder sedan, the 219. Pat's car is stunning in Midnight Blue with Grey leather.

Larry Brackett is a certified Mercedes nut having owned 60 or 70 examples over the decades. He's not interested in the classics, however, and just added a new SLS to share his garage with this SLR. According to Larry his new SLS is vastly more user-friendly than his SLR.

Larry Brackett's dilemma is what to drive on Sunday morning, the new SLS in the foreground or his SLR behind. What a dilemma!

Chuck and Sue Cortsen's cheery 1953 220 Cabriolet A is a prewar design carrying 170 styling cues. The faired in headlights tell us this is a post war 220.

Sigi Appelt's stately 1960 300d looks quite smart in Silver with acres of Red trim. Three liters and fuel injection provided a respectable 160hp for the ponderous "Adenauer." Only 3,077 were constructed.

300SLs were well represented. Rudge wheels complement this Silver/Red roadster nicely.

Susan Hoebich's 190SL was fitted with slightly(!) non-standard ostrich skin interior trim. The car is fitted with the large rear window hardtop introduced during the 1958 model year.

Event sponsor Academy of Art University provided their 540K Convertible B (4 passenger convertible w/rear quarter window) in recognition of Mercedes-Benz as the featured marque.

Lot #377: 1969 280SL. Purchased by the current owners in San Jose in 1990, it was used as a family car and enjoyed for a few years on the occasional weekend drive. It was put into dry storage a few years later and stayed there until 2009 when it was taken out and received several mechanical updates, including rebuilding of the fuel injection pump, fuel injectors, and fuel supply pump by Bosch of San Francisco. Additionally, the starter and the injection pump thermostat were rebuilt, and a new transmission filter kit was installed. All fluids, gaskets, seals and spark plugs were replaced along with the rear suspension trailing arm bushings. It also received a complete chassis lubrication, and the car was fitted with period Phoenix 14-inch tires with a ¾-inch whitewall.The sales estimate is $45k-$55k. Be sure to visit our SL Research Database to learn about this charming era of SLs before you bid.

Lot 379: This 1958 190 SL Roadster was carefully restored as originally delivered in a four-year process that was completed in May 2010. Bodywork included the removal and repair of all rusted body panels, followed by replacement of the original Glasurit Daimler Silver Grey paint with an identically matched PPG two-phase Metallic Silver finish. The car’s underside was refinished in an original 169 Grey. Atlanta’s R. Rabon furnished the red leather interior upholstery, as well as the new carpeting and convertible top, while Superior Chrome of Houston, Texas restored the grille, bumpers and brightwork. North Hollywood Speedometer restored all instruments, including the clock. This SL is also a no reserve lot with a catalogue estimate of $60k-$70k.

Lot #244: 1958 190SL. With an older, high quality, ground-up restoration by Robert Platz of Camden, New Jersey’s Precision Auto Works, this very fine example earned Grand National First Prize honors from the AACA in 1993. Finished in factory correct light green (“Perlmutter Gruen”), the 190SL continues to present beautifully throughout, including its dark green leather upholstery and engine bay, which are correct and clean in presentation. Features include an AM/FM pushbutton radio, translucent sun visors, matched luggage and a tool roll, as well as VDO instrumentation and a VDO electric clock. Catalogue estimate of $80k-$100k.

Lot #224: 1960 220SE Convertible. This beautifully restored 220SE Cabriolet has been driven very sparingly and remains in near perfect, virtual show-quality condition throughout. Virtually devoid of cosmetic imperfections, the car presents very nicely with a show-quality undercarriage, a beautifully trimmed interior and a properly detailed engine bay. Other items include a stainless-steel exhaust system, a desirable Becker Mexico radio, a properly fitted convertible top and a set of period-style wide whitewall tires. Estimate: $150k-$200k

Lot #313: 1952 300 Cabriolet D. This example was properly restored in Missouri by its current owner approximately twenty years ago. Receipts are available upon request providing evidence of the work completed. The restoration has endured the years very well, and the vehicle, though driven a bit, has very nice chrome and a nicely detailed engine bay. The original sales brochure is included with the car. It is equipped with Bosch driving lights and rides on Firestone whitewall tires. Overall, this is a nice example of a rare and seldom seen convertible that offers the exclusivity of a coachbuilt car and the quality of a classic Mercedes-Benz. Estimate; $60k-$90k

Lot #374: 1961 300 SL. This wonderful example from 1961 was purchased new in Newport, California and spent most of the intervening years in Coronado, California. Approximately 10 years ago, the current enthusiast-owner acquired it from Paul Russell in Boston, Massachusetts. Since it was already a beautifully running and driving car, the 300 SL was purchased with the intention to be driven and enjoyed first and then restored later. Accordingly, it was shipped to the new owner’s home in Florida, and soon after, it was serviced, had the belts and hoses changed, and was entered into the New England 1200 classic rally, as well as driven from Florida to New England and back – a total of 3,800 miles. It performed flawlessly. Next, the 300 SL was driven in the Florida 1000 classic rally, running through Northern Florida and Southern Georgia, again performing as it should and accumulating another 1,750 miles. Estimate: $500k-$575k

Lot #320: 1955 300SL. This handsome 300SL, sporting red paint with tan leather interior, has been regularly used in driving events and is fully sorted mechanically. The odometer reads just 77,000 miles, which are believed to be original. Factory original fitted luggage is also included, and the color matches the interior perfectly, further providing evidence that the interior (which has a lovely patina) is most likely original. Inside, you’ll find a Becker Le Mans radio and, in the trunk, the original jack and a complete tool roll (reproduction). All exterior body panels are straight and true, and the undercarriage is equipped with belly pans. This is an exceedingly nice driver quality 300SL that would be welcome at competition and driving events wherever its owner might choose to participate. Estimate $450k-$550k

Lot #319: 1957 300SL Roadster. This striking red roadster with tan leather interior and tan German canvas top was regularly used by its owner in driving events. It has a solid, rust-free body with very nice paint and chrome. In addition, it shows evidence of having been well cared-for and regularly maintained. The trunk is lined with the correct square-weave material, and the jack and complete tool kit are included, both of which appear to be in their original bags. The 300SL today remains one of the greatest production automobiles ever produced and will be forever recognized for sheer performance, heritage, engineering and overall excellence in an automobile. This car is no exception and one that any enthusiast would be proud to own. Estimate: $400k-$450k

Lot #371: 1936 540k Special Cabriolet. The original owner of s/n 130913, William A. Burden, took delivery in Paris, although Mercedes-Benz factory records indicate the car was shipped to New York. There are several possible explanations, but the most likely of these is that the car was ordered through the New York agency but then diverted to Paris at Burden’s request. Mr. Burden was the patriarch of an established and very wealthy East Coast family with the grandest homes in New York City and relationships to other established families, the Vanderbilts included. In a letter written in 1969 by Burden to the car’s second owner, Herbert Jaffe of Woodbury, New York, Burden relates that he “drove it abroad for several summers, then brought it to the United States.” He goes on to describe the other Mercedes-Benz models he had owned before buying the 540K, including a Model K, Model S, SS, SSK, and 770! Even more interesting is Burden’s explanation of the car’s striking styling. His intention was to “produce something that would give an effect similar to the racing Mercedes of that period,” but as one can see from the car, the results were somewhat different. Nonetheless, the Mercedes-Benz is truly remarkable. With its skirted rear fenders and fully disappearing top, it is very sleek looking, while the car’s unique and graceful radiator shell and twin rear spares give the body a French-influenced European flair. The prior owner acquired the car from Roy Jaffe in 2005 before it joined a large private collection in 2007. Today, it continues to benefit from the comprehensive professional restoration that was commissioned by Mr. Jaffe and completed by LaVine Restorations of Nappanee, Indiana. Mechanically, the restoration included a comprehensive rebuild of the original Roots-type supercharger, and in addition, the chassis, suspension, steering and braking systems were restored with all parts either reconditioned or replaced. Estimate: $1.1m-$1.3m

Lot #364: 1911 Mercedes 38/70 hp Seven Passenger Touring. The Mercedes then became part of the Otis Chandler collection in California, before being acquired by the late Mr. John O’Quinn at the Chandler auction in 2006. Without question one of the most outstanding aspects of this Mercedes is the simple fact that it remains one of the most powerful, mechanically impressive of all chain drive Brass Era Touring cars. The T-Head engine delivers over 70 horsepower, making it one of the largest motors of its time, not to mention rare, and in 1911 few cars could compare with the combination of power, speed and sophistication that this Mercedes would have offered. Col. Colt’s Mercedes remains outstanding in all aspects. The paint, wood and brass are all in excellent condition, and the buttoned black leather upholstery is nearly perfect. The wheels and whitewall tires are superb. The recipient of AACA Senior National First honors, the AACA Cup for an outstanding restoration of a pre-1921 vehicle, the Mayor’s Trophy at the Louis Vuitton Concours in New York City and the coveted Ansel Adams Trophy at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, this mighty Mercedes remains the perfect contestant for the world’s most prestigious shows. Estimate: $500k-$600k

1928 S Boat tail Speedster, ex Zeppo Marx. Coachwork by Murphy and largely unrestored. A magnificent piece of Hollywood lore and one of a handful of Murphy (Los Angeles) bodied Mercedes of the era.

1955 300SL Gullwing, Silver/Red, Rudge wheels. Estimate $650k-$750k

1961 300SL Roadster, No Reserve. Estimate $600k-$700k.

1943 770 W Pullman. This is a rare sight at auction. Likely one of the last 770s constructed, this handsome and imperial sedan is estimated to sell between $1.5m and $2.0m.

1930 Mercedes-Benz 38/250 SS 7.1 liter Sports Tourer Chassis no. 36257 Engine no. 77636. Estimate on request

Lot #7006 1971 3.5 Cabriolet. Featured here is a stunning example of a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5. Recently professionally restored in the correct factory ‘mittelblau’ metallic over Saddle Roser leather with acres of burl-walnut trim and a contrasting Haartz cloth convertible top, the results are nothing short of stunning, understated opulence combined with the power, handling and ride comfort this generation of Mercedes-Benz automobiles are known for. As all 802 examples that reached the United States were equipped, this car features factory-installed Behr air-conditioning, a Becker Europa stereo radio, dash-mounted clock, power-windows, vacuum-operated power locks and much more.

Lot #7061. This immaculate 1961 190SL sports a completely restored engine and all underhood components by a master Mercedes mechanic. The vendor has detailed paperwork and invoices for all work performed on the vehicle. All exterior chrome was redone. The car's body is in excellent condition and was also restored. A brand-new genuine leather top kit conveys with the car as does an unrestored accessory hard top. Inside, the interior, dash and carpet are complete. Over $20,000 of documented work has been put in to this beautiful vehicle's restoration with needed parts purchased from Mercedes-Benz.

1965 220SE Cabriolet. Owned by Cinema Cars. Imagine cruising the strip with the top down in this car. You will be sure to get front row parking at any of the casinos. Set up the movie poster next to it and let everyone take photos. If you haven't seen the movie "THE HANGOVER" it is one of the best comedies of this past year. This car comes with an authentic signed movie poster off all the main actors. Every time you take this car somewhere people take notice. It is a lot of fun even without the lion in the back! Note: the body damage shown has been repaired!

The only 300 C Station Wagon in existence? Likely so. Mercedes-Benz tapped their commercial body builder Binz to fulfill unusual special order.

Sumptuous interior features traditional station wagon features - split rear seat and fold down back rest - within a very non-traditional wagon candidate.

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Conversion to a wagon entailed an entirely new roof, specially fabricated clam-shell rear hatches and 190SL tail lights. A most elegant wagon.

A view from the helm. Standard 300c appointments here with the exception of aftermarket AC unit. Introduced in September 1955, the 300c offered an optional Borg-Warner 3 speed automatic transmission - an essential addition to an otherwise highly opulent luxury sedan.

Comprehensive body-on restoration by Hatch & Sons included engine out restoration of engine bay and ancillary systems.

An impressive presence on the road ferrying its occupants and supplies to the summer house. This wonderful 300 sold at Gooding & Company's Amelia Island auction 2010 for $242,000.

•An Original US-Delivery, Matching-Numbers Example • Known Ownership History • Longtime California Car • Exceptional Restoration by 300 SL Specialist Mark Allen

The Only Known Example of Its Kind • Fascinating Provenance and History • Sympathetically Refurbished by Hatch & Sons Automotive • Remarkable Craftsmanship and Detail • Featured Prominently in The Star Magazine and Mercedes-Benz Personenwagen

Striking Originality • Low-Mileage, Four-Owner Example • Desirable Center Console Floor Shift • Classic Convertible Sedan Body • Powerful 3.5-Liter Engine

The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet pictured here was purchased by the vendor five years ago. Restored within about the last 15 years in Orange County, it formerly resided in sunny, dry Southern California and as such remains in excellent condition throughout. Currently showing 79,000 miles, the owner reports the car to be in excellent mechanical condition and has undertaken such cosmetic work as redoing the interior with new light tan upholstery. Finished in navy blue with a light tan convertible top and boot, the car is reported to be in as-new condition, from the paint and chrome to the interior. factory air conditioning and a floor-shift automatic transmission – both very desirable features.

This particular example, finished in cream with a striking red leather interior, was acquired by the vendor about five years ago after having received a frame-off restoration. According to information provided to the owner at the time of purchase, it was formerly owned by a Chairman of the U.S. Olympic Committee and Disney board member. Since its acquisition, the car has been shown and driven very sparingly. It is reported to run and drive well, without any issues. While at a concours event, the car was inspected by a Mercedes-Benz factory trained mechanic, who marveled at the car’s period correctness and remarked that he was hard-pressed to find any incorrect pieces on the entire car. Properly maintained and beautifully presented, this is a handsome example, worthy of serious consideration.

The Gullwing presented here, chassis 5500366, is documented in the Gullwing Registry and was acquired by the O’Quinn Collection in 2004 after having received a comprehensive and very expensive nut and bolt restoration by a leading marque specialist. Finished in DB190 graphite gray with a dark red leather interior, the color combination is superb, complemented by red carpeting and matching fitted red leather luggage.

The car is finished in silver with a black interior, and it is best described as being in good driver condition. There is a small ding in the decklid and a cracked taillight. The odometer indicates just under 75,000 miles which is consistent with the car’s overall condition, although there is no documentation to support the indication. The paint is in very presentable condition, and the chrome and bright trim is very good. The rear seats show evidence of minor cracking and signs of aging, although the front seats are in much better condition, indicating restoration work at some point. The wood trim is quite good, particularly the door caps and garnishes.