The 3rd place SLS AMG GT3 shared by Bernd Schneider (GER), Kenneth Heyer (GER), Andreas Simonsen (SWE) und Rodolfo Gonzalez (VEN) leans into one of Circuit Yas Marina's bends. Note expansive paved run-off area. Purists decry the circuit's sterile layout.

Slightly ostentatious, don't you think? Note the large Rubies embedded in the top of the right door panel. I suppose we have to recognize the meticulous application of gold leaf and gems. This SLR interior was laid bare during the transformation from potent supercar to high speed gem encrusted abortion.

Swiss registered SLR 999 is sure to disgust the generally understated and discriminate Swiss populace. 14k Gold plated wheels, boy racer spoiler, pop off sunroof, and crude sail panel 'diffusers' finish off the package.

AMG's 'Performance Studio' has turned its attention to the successful SLS Gullwing. We see massive wheel arches to accommodate larger wheel/tire combinations and crude front facia likely hiding larger cooling ducts and a more aggressive spoiler/splitter configuration. Power will undoubtedly rise above 600hp. This test hack is fitted with full roll cage for safe high speed testing at Germany's treacherous 14 mile Nurburgring circuit.

Black in Black: As is the case with prior 'Black Series' cars, the new SLS Black will not be a harmonious beauty but an in-your-face thug. Low production and a hefty list price are assured.

Lot #009 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.10.002898 ENGINE NO. 198.980.10.002959: Disc brakes, hard top, tools, factory luggage, matching numbers, undated restoration, mechanical restoration attended to by Bill Richardson, estimate: $700,000 - $850,000 ------ SOLD for $852,500. 172 Anthracite Grey/Red leather, Euro Headlamps, recent extensive 'body-on' restored under the watchful eye of Dr. Phil Lufty. Euro headlamps, polished wheels, black license plate CA car, dare Luggage, slight fuel door misalignment, gorgeous paint and trim combination - a (sensible) color change I believe , period style Talbot outside mirror, spotless fresh engine area w/correct finishes/decals, soft top only, disc brakes and cast iron engine block. Phil Lufty has been creating superb vintage Mercedes-Benz for decades, carrying on a passion fostered by his father. $852k is certainly Gullwing price territory but the price received reflected the color/trim combination and Dr. Lufty's penchant for perfection. Compare this result with that of lot #154, a roadster presenting quite a different appearance.

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Lot #010 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE Cabriolet CHASSIS NO. 112.023.10.004451 ENGINE NO. 189.985. 10.000176: ex Margaret Rockefeller Strong, 4-speed manual gearbox, correct color/trim combination, no substantial condition information provided by the catalogue. Estimate: $80,000 - $100,000, no reserve ------ SOLD for $79,750. Probable US model, Bosch driving lights, nice street condition chrome, missing lower rocker cover finishers, mis-aligned deck lid, 4-spd manual gearbox, Kuhlmeister AC, faded upper dash wood, recent era velour carpet, fully dyed slightly crispy interior leather, crudely patched left rear floor area, uniform paint fish-eye and orange peel. Not a particularly interesting 112 cabriolet and lacking much attention to cosmetic details. We're having great difficulty locating 111/112 cabriolets of any description hence buyers can only be so picky when presented with an opportunity to buy an reasonably attractive example. A 112 cabriolet has a massive downside risk should its 189 series engine - $20kish to correctly rebuild - be loosing its edge. And there is the issue of the eternally finicky air suspension. An average example at best, if the engine and suspension are solid this cabriolet was market correct at just below its low estimate.

Lot #029: 1963 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.040.10.023853 ENGINE NO. 121.928.10.001761: Weber carb conversion, generally unrestored, blessed by Alex Finigan, 60k miles showing possibly correct, correct engine, $60,000 - $90,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $68,750 ------ I did not have a chance to inspect this SL but I did have a chance to speak to the winning bidder - a long time acquaintance of MercedesHeritage.com - and the loosing bidder - MecedesHeritage.com's number one client. The buyer was comfortably at home bidding online with a Scotch in one hand. He must have been musing that since that guy Roy Spencer hadn't been able to find a car for him, he'd simply take matters in his own hands (with a little scotch induced courage) and click the mouse. He's a lucky guy as he paid only $1,000 more than the two most precise Dutch 190SL experts on the planet. Based on this fact I have to consider this attractive 190SL well bought. Good job Chris.

Lot #037 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250 SL CHASSIS NO. 113.043.10.000894 ENGINE NO. 129.982.10.000572: factory 5-speed, 22k KM from new, three owners, full documentation, Philips record player(!), extensive history, an extraordinary original survivor, ex-Phil Lufty, Estimate: $110,000 - $140,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $126,500. 050 white, body #860, 22,600 km showing, missing horizontal rear panel trim rubber, correct white grey bumper inner surfaces, small area of rust(?) repair in the rr inner wheel well area, perfect shut lines, excellent chrome, chrome wheel arch moldings, matching hood/lid cover body numbers, weathered firewall pad, original soft top(?), Philips record player, Euro car w/chrome trip piece under license plate area, clean inner wheel wells. I inspected this car in Arizona some years ago and it was obviously a gorgeous, largely untouched survivor 250SL. The record player was a revelation. It was not for sale at that time. It's really a lovely car with a subtle patina of age, our favorite condition. But $126,500? This figure will buy some very interesting pre-1972 open Mercedes-Benz although none showing 13,500 miles on the clock. Mileage and presentation multiplied the price by a factor of roughly 3. Not sure if the new owner will be able to see this figure again anytime soon so I'll regard Dr. Lufty's amazing 250SL as well sold.

Lot 067 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.7500526 ENGINE NO. 198.980.7500469: silver/red, documented from new, handbooks, tools, ready to tour, re-stamped replacement NOS factory engine block installed circa 1976, engine rebuilt again circa January 2000, Estimate: $475,000 - $550,000 ------ SOLD for $638,000. Misc stone chips, dirty wheels, polished rims flat and cloudy, non-pleated leather, starting instructions attached to the dash not encouraging as to a healthy running roadster, obviously wrinkled left front inner apron from collision damage, repaired chassis down tube where secured to the chassis triangle at firewall area, aux cooling fan. This roadster certainly did not enhance Gooding's reputation for presenting high caliber offerings. Did the buyer pay almost $100k over the high estimate because of a fundamental confidence in Gooding's ability to source, inspect and qualify their generally superb offerings? A moderately discerning buyer would have ignored this roadster. Well sold.

Lot #068 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.042.7501671 ENGINE NO. 121.921.7501692: red/tan, color changed from Strawberry Red, recent service, restored in 1995 to AACA standards, recent cosmetic freshening, Estimate: $45,000 - $60,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $52,800. Odd switch mounted on steering column, incorrect clock, poor sill finishing, misc fresh chrome, late style California license plates, missing jack point covers, pitted windshield surround, extensive paint orange peel, matching hood body number, missing paint code tag. This was a decent looking 190SL and the hammer price was $48kish hence a fair value. There aren't acceptable street condition 190Sls around every today corner and I would consider this car a fair value if the mechanical condition allows safe and enjoyable touring.

Lot #107 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.040.9502307: white/black, A Charitable Donation from Sheryl Crow, engine rebuilt circa 1993, negligible records, hardtop, Estimate: $50,000 - $80,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $143,000. Two tops, missing hard top base trim, average panel fit, presentable fairly correct interior, 66,278 miles showing, aftermarket gas cap, missing visors, heavy paint shrinkage on hard top, very clean undercarriage, possible floor patch passenger foot well area, coded 050 white, tidy engine bay, Solex carbs, probable original fenders. Of course we had extra value here due to the proceeds being donated to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. My split would be approximately $53k for the car and $90k for the charitable Foundation. A wonderful purchase from a kind buyer.

Lot #136 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen Replica CHASSIS NO. JB 100: late series John Bentley Engineering replica, last chassis of the series, Estimate: $90,000 - $120,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $68,200. Evidently the last John Bentley/Daimler-Benz Patent-Motorwagen re-creation. Prices for these jewels vary and $80k-$100k was the market 5-7 years ago. No so today and even the ether of Mercedes-Benz'125th anniversary couldn't lift #100s price. In the next 5-10 years, this may look like a good buy. Well bought.

Lot #144 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL CHASSIS NO. 113.044.10.021487 ENGINE NO. 130.983.10.007554: both tops, blue/blue, 4-speed manual, misc reconditioning over the years including work in Costa Rica, last year of 113 production, largely original, Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $82,500. Probably color changed to medium blue non-metallic, grey/blue leather, moldy interior, all heater levers broken, dash face still silver, 4 spd, no AC, loose side windows, poor hood fit, no headlight bezel area body 'creases', crude rust repair in the trunk, complete rear body 'light' panel replacement and probable deck lid as well, heavy undercoating. I had to check the catalogue again to make sure I had the correct car as I read my notes. $82k is ludicrous for this barely average, poorly maintained SL. But of course there were two interested parties who drove each other to 280SL oblivion in this case. A perplexing result for which the seller must be thanking his/her lucky stars. I'll put this sale down to another serious case of auction fever. Well sold does not begin to describe this sale.

Lot #154 The 1960 Copenhagen Motor Show 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.10.002509 ENGINE NO. 198.980.10.002552: Blue Grey/Tan, both tops, tools, matching numbers, single family owned through 2010 a 'garage' find, stored for three decades, 15,000 original miles, vast patina, original spare tire, no mention of whether the car will run, Estimate: $700,000 - $900,000 ------ SOLD for $962,500. Blue in 'as-found' condition hence unwashed, probably a high percentage of original paint, grungy exterior chrome will likely clean up nicely, what looked like rust would begin to disappear with some gentle rubbing, 15,009 miles showing, uneven length rocker peak lines side to side, perfect shutlines, original bias ply tires, creased front bumper, misc coachwork dimples, stored unused for 3 decades in Garden City New York, weathered engine bay, no mention of the whereabouts of the soft top lid cover, obviously a significant find in the 300SL world. The $962k selling price further establishes the market's recognition of survivor, unrestored automobiles regardless of manufacturer. Restoring this time-warp roaster to any significant extent will negate the premium paid for its extraordinary originality. My plan would be to entirely re-commission the car technically, carefully clean the interior, replace the tires, clean the windows (not the rest of the car!) and use it. How many more untouched extreme low mileage 300SLs exist? Certainly not many and I would consider this wonderfully aged roadster fairly bought.

Lot #025 1967 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB CHASSIS NO. 100.012.12.000735: white/blue, three owners from new, highly original, 71k miles, re-commissioned after long term storage, Estimate: $90,000 - $120,000 Without Reserve ------ SOLD for $88,000. Micro blistering deck lid, misc stone chips nose area, misc paint blemishes - scuffs/scratches - over many panels, minor windshield delamination, decent street level chrome, misc paint blend lines, overspray passenger door handle, very nice wood, original leather, nice tool roll, hydraulic spares kit, tidy engine bay, handbooks, recent invoices totaling $26,750 that included a valve job (water in the oil) and front suspension bellows wisely displayed on the driver's seat, 70,601 miles showing, probably a well sorted driver 600 SWB. Bringing this 600 forward cosmetically will require a bare metal respray and misc chrome adding a further $30k to the new owner's investment. $118k invested in a mid year non-sunroof low demand color/trim 600 SWB would be strong in my viewpoint, hence I feel this Grosser was a little pricy.

Lot #209 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet 11102712001432: Signal Red/Cognac, bare metal respray in 2004, floor shift, fresh leather in 2005, serviced by Old Timer Restorations, Estimate: $140,000-$180,000 US ------ SOLD for $154,000. A rare original 568 Signal Red 3.5, rude flat black engine bay inner aprons, poor front bumper chrome, Ziebart holes in door shut faces, door jamb VIN plate mounted backwards, newish cognac leather, inertia reel seatbelts, shiny but wavy coachwork, tool roll, nice trunk floor, rear tow loop partially ripped from undercarriage, poor rocker chrome to body fit, grungy undercarriage. I was asked to ponder this particular Cabriolet this last spring for a client, ultimately rejecting it after viewing undercarriage images. Priced at $165k at that time, the car was simply not 'crisp' enough for us to recommend to our client. Instead we sourced a nut and bolt restored (by the highly respected Lothar Motschenbacher) Silver/Black console auto CA 3.5 for $179k. While it was $25k more than this red 3.5, it was in fact a better buy. This red car would have to be disassembled and restored to achieve the same quality of the silver Motschenbacher restored car. The extra $25k we asked our client to spend was a bargain for Motschenbacher quality. Lot #209 was not for the picky 3.5 Cabriolet buyer but should offer the new owner a flashy top down cruiser at mid market money.

Lot #211 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster, 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Chassis No. 198042-10.003019: signal red/tan, disc brakes, matching numbers, serviced by RM Auto Restoration, Becker Mexico radio, fitted luggage, single top, Estimate: $650,000-$800,000 US ------ SOLD for $687,500. Upper nose panel replaced, black highlighted 300SL insignia, slightly wide right door gap, Becker Mexico radio, disc brakes, correct engine, tools, one piece of luggage, no data on original color, based on the catalogue description there was some re-commissioning required likely from lack of use. The roadster market is gradually telling us that we need to spend in the mid $600k range and up for a sorted 'driver' 300SL roadster, particularly of one if is after a disc brake car. Are we approaching the top of a 5 year price trend?

Lot #219 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Chassis No. 198.040-6500214: black/red, restored by RM Auto Restoration in 2007, single owner through 2007, belly pans, 56k miles indicated, Estimate: $850,000-$1,100,000 US ------ SOLD for $836,000. Vin indicates a 1956, body off restored by RM in 2007, single ownership from 1957 to 2006, color changed from the original red to black, perfect chrome, Dunlop Roadspeed tires, spectacular coachwork, 56,143 miles showing, no luggage, excellent headliner and interior, essentially a faultless Gullwing that radiated perfection although sold at the low estimate. The right money for an exceptional Gullwing.

Lot #232 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen, Chassis No. 408383: black/black, from the William Lyon Family collection, 5-speed gearbox, one-off 'Spezial' coachwork, recent inspection by Mercedes-Benz Classic Germany, probable numbers matching 540K, transmission/steering box correct to the series, Estimate: $3,500,000-$4,500,000 US ------ SOLD for $4,620,000.

Lot #236 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Coupe by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 130944: from the Lyon Family Collection, 1936 Paris Salon car, copy of original build sheet, matching numbers, modern shocks, older restoration, ex-Mozart(?) Estimate: $3,250,000-$4,500,000 US ------ SOLD for 3,080,000. A rare 540K coupe, ex-1938 Paris Salon show car, ex-John Mozart, restored in the '60s and showing a fair amount of weathering particularly the interior, road driven quality undercarriage, both spare wheels showing rust, discolored bumper faces, oxidized and pitted lower control arms, a 'driver' 540K coupe if there is such a thing.

Lot #242 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 154140: silver/blue, from the Sam and Emily Mann collection, restored circa 1999, Pebble Beach class winner 2004, Estimate: Available Upon Request ------ SOLD for $9,680,000. 1 of 25 Spezial Roadsters, long tail covered spare coachwork, From the Sam and Emily Mann collection. Best of show Amelia Island 2011, magnificent in every respect. A commodity likely more stable than gold.

Lot #245 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Chassis No. 198.0405500621: silver/black, two California owners from new, restored by Kevin Kay Restorations 1999-2003 at a cost of $375,000, luggage, sport cam, belly pans, rudge wheels, original leather remnants provided(!), 3:64 final drive, Estimate: $650,000-$850,000 US ------ SOLD for $803,00.

Lot #247 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Roadster by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 105380: red/tan, from the William Lyon Collection, inspected by Mercedes-Benz Classic, later series 500K transmission, fully restored, Estimate: $4,000,000-$5,000,000 US ------ SOLD for $3,767,500.

Lot #249 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Sport Cabriolet A by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 130945: black/black, transitional early series 540K, restored by Thomas Taffet circa 1994, 100pt Pebble Beach class winner 1996, restored again(!) by Taffet circa 2008, Estimate: Available Upon Request ------ SOLD for $2,970,000.

Lot #250 1935 Mercedes-Benz 290 Cabriolet D Chassis No. 104569: black/tan, restored 1999-2000, Best Interior at Ault Park in 2002, CCCA National show winner, Estimate: $200,000-$300,000 US ------ SOLD for $275,000. I had the unexpected chance to inspect this 290 during a Gullwing buying trip to Indiana earlier this year. The Levine restoration was holding up very nicely. While this Cab D looks reasonably handsome top up it becomes rather awkward looking with the massive top heaped over the rear quarters. Once back in CA I had a chance to chat with our our pre-war MBZ expert, Thomas Taffet, about the $275k asking price. Taffet laughed and pegged the value at an unrepeatable low figure - less than half of the asking. The $275k realized reveals that wise experts can sometimes misjudge the market. The seller got the price he quoted me in April less the sellers' fee. The price realized for the car would barely cover (California) restoration costs hence one could argue this pre-war open Mercedes was not a bad buy.

Lot #251 1924 Mercedes 28/95 Sport Phaeton by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 27003: yellow/black, sympathetic restoration in the '90s, rare coachwork, Estimate: $900,000-$1,200,000 US ------ SOLD for $1,017,500.

Lot #263 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe Chassis No. WDDAJ76F76M001188: grey/tan, 2007 New Yord Auto Show car, 4,000 miles, just serviced, Estimate: $240,000-$280,000 US ------ SOLD for $242,000. Montana plates, essentially a new SLR, market correct for an early coupe and still more than a new SLS. Does this mean the outrageous SLR will outpace the new SLS in future value? I think so.

Lot #264 1966 Mercedes-Benz 230SL Roadster Chassis No. 11304210018632: ivory/tan, 4-speed manual, minor paintwork over the years, 'original and unrestored', 30,000 kms, Euro model, recent attention by Mercedes-Benz Classic Center Irvine, CA, Estimate: $75,000-$100,000 US ------ SOLD for $82,500. Body # 3712, 670H Ivory, new firewall pad, uniformly pitted chrome except bumpers, missing tail horizontal chrome seal, reproduction spare tire cover, deck lid never disturbed, SS exhaust, collapsed engine mounts, my notes indicate a mileage/km reading of 53,457. I suppose like Phil Lufty's 250SL, extreme low mileage (about 18,000 miles as per RM) warrants a hefty premium. It's a shame this buyer wasn't aware of our single owner 1964 230SL w/52k miles earlier this year. It was far ahead of this Euro car on every front other than miles and was fitted with perfect original cognac leather. We sold that car to Europe in May for... $39,000. In lot 264's case mileage certainly trumped quality. Very well sold.

Lot #8541 1937 Mercedes-Benz 230 A cabriolet Creme over burgundy fenders, no substantial information regarding this specific car in the catalogue other than 'restored several years ago to a high standard and has been properly maintained ever since. Described as in good working condition, the vehicle has been fully finished for the auction.' No estimate ----- no sales results

Lot #8574 1972 Mercedes-Benz 250 C Coupe: tobacco brown with ivory roof/tan interior, unrestored, automatic, power windows, repainted twelve years ago, 150k miles, California car, No estimate. ------ SOLD for $6,050. We were not able to inspect this cute coupe but if things were in good, immediately usable order, we would consider this fairly bought.

Lot #8533 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Convertible Conversion, converted to open configuration from (presumably) a 3.5 coupe, $30,000 spent on the conversion/restoration. No estimate. ------ SOLD for $50,600. We always lament the loss of a perfectly good 3.5 coupe to create an often crudely converted 3.5 Convertible. $50k buys a 'best of breed' sunroof, floor shift 3.5 coupe. We'd rather have the coupe. It's fair money however for this conversion if it was reasonably well performed.

Lot #009 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.10.002898 ENGINE NO. 198.980.10.002959: Disc brakes, hard top, tools, factory luggage, matching numbers, undated restoration, mechanical restoration attended to by Bill Richardson, estimate: $700,000 - $850,000

Lot #010 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE Cabriolet CHASSIS NO. 112.023.10.004451 ENGINE NO. 189.985. 10.000176: ex Margaret Rockefeller Strong, 4-speed manual gearbox, correct color/trim combination, no substantial condition information provided by the catalogue. Estimate: $80,000 - $100,000, no reserve

Lot #029: 1963 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.040.10.023853 ENGINE NO. 121.928.10.001761: Weber carb conversion, generally unrestored, blessed by Alex Finigan, 60k miles showing possibly correct, correct engine, $60,000 - $90,000 Without Reserve

Lot #037 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250 SL CHASSIS NO. 113.043.10.000894 ENGINE NO. 129.982.10.000572: factory 5-speed, 22k KM from new, three owners, full documentation, Philips record player(!), extensive history, an extraordinary original survivor, ex-Phil Lufty, Estimate: $110,000 - $140,000 Without Reserve

Lot 067 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.7500526 ENGINE NO. 198.980.7500469: silver/red, documented from new, handbooks, tools, ready to tour, re-stamped replacement NOS factory engine block installed circa 1976, engine rebuilt again circa January 2000, Estimate: $475,000 - $550,000

Lot #068 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.042.7501671 ENGINE NO. 121.921.7501692: red/tan, color changed from Strawberry Red, recent service, restored in 1995 to AACA standards, recent cosmetic freshening, Estimate: $45,000 - $60,000 Without Reserve

Lot #107 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL CHASSIS NO. 121.040.9502307: white/black, A Charitable Donation from Sheryl Crow, engine rebuilt circa 1993, negligible records, hardtop, Estimate: $50,000 - $80,000 Without Reserve

Lot #136 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen Replica CHASSIS NO. JB 100: late series John Bentley Engineering replica, last chassis of the series, Estimate: $90,000 - $120,000 Without Reserve

Lot #144 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL CHASSIS NO. 113.044.10.021487 ENGINE NO. 130.983.10.007554: both tops, blue/blue, 4-speed manual, misc reconditioning over the years including work in Costa Rica, last year of 113 production, largely original, Estimate: $60,000 - $80,000 Without Reserve

Lot #154 The 1960 Copenhagen Motor Show 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster CHASSIS NO. 198.042.10.002509 ENGINE NO. 198.980.10.002552: Blue Grey/Tan, both tops, tools, matching numbers, single family owned through 2010 a 'garage' find, stored for three decades, 15,000 original miles, vast patina, original spare tire, no mention of whether the car will run, Estimate: $700,000 - $900,000

Lot #025 1967 Mercedes-Benz 600 SWB CHASSIS NO. 100.012.12.000735: white/blue, three owners from new, highly original, 71k miles, re-commissioned after long term storage, Estimate: $90,000 - $120,000 Without Reserve

Lot #209 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet 11102712001432: Signal Red/Cognac, bare metal respray in 2004, floor shift, fresh leather in 2005, serviced by Old Timer Restorations, Estimate: $140,000-$180,000 US

Lot #211 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster, 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Chassis No. 198042-10.003019: signal red/tan, disc brakes, matching numbers, serviced by RM Auto Restoration, Becker Mexico radio, fitted luggage, single top, Estimate: $650,000-$800,000 US

Lot #219 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Chassis No. 198.040-6500214: black/red, restored by RM Auto Restoration in 2007, single owner through 2007, belly pans, 56k miles indicated, Estimate: $850,000-$1,100,000 US

Lot #232 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen, Chassis No. 408383: black/black, from the William Lyon Family collection, 5-speed gearbox, one-off 'Spezial' coachwork, recent inspection by Mercedes-Benz Classic Germany, probable numbers matching 540K, transmission/steering box correct to the series, Estimate: $3,500,000-$4,500,000 US

Lot #236 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Coupe by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 130944: from the Lyon Family Collection, 1936 Paris Salon car, copy of original build sheet, matching numbers, modern shocks, older restoration, ex-Mozart(?) Estimate: $3,250,000-$4,500,000 US

Lot #242 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 154140: silver/blue, from the Sam and Emily Mann collection, restored circa 1999, Pebble Beach class winner 2004, Estimate: Available Upon Request

Lot #245 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Chassis No. 198.0405500621: silver/black, two California owners from new, restored by Kevin Kay Restorations 1999-2003 at a cost of $375,000, luggage, sport cam, belly pans, rudge wheels, original leather remnants provided(!), 3:64 final drive, Estimate: $650,000-$850,000 US:

Lot #247 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Roadster by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 105380: red/tan, from the William Lyon Collection, inspected by Mercedes-Benz Classic, later series 500K transmission, fully restored, Estimate: $4,000,000-$5,000,000 US

Lot #249 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Sport Cabriolet A by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 130945: black/black, transitional early series 540K, restored by Thomas Taffet circa 1994, 100pt Pebble Beach class winner 1996, restored again(!) by Taffett circa 2008, Estimate: Available Upon Request

Lot #250 1935 Mercedes-Benz 290 Cabriolet D Chassis No. 104569: black/tan, restored 1999-2000, Best Interior at Ault Park in 2002, CCCA National show winner, Estimate: $200,000-$300,000 US

Lot #251 1924 Mercedes 28/95 Sport Phaeton by Sindelfingen Chassis No. 27003: yellow/black, sympathetic restoration in the '90s, rare coachwork, Estimate: $900,000-$1,200,000 US

Lot #263 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe Chassis No. WDDAJ76F76M001188: grey/tan, 2007 New Yord Auto Show car, 4,000 miles, just serviced, Estimate: $240,000-$280,000 US

Lot #264 1966 Mercedes-Benz 230SL Roadster Chassis No. 11304210018632: ivory/tan, 4-speed manual, minor paintwork over the years, 'original and unrestored', 30,000 kms, Euro model, recent attention by Mercedes-Benz Classic Center Irvine, CA, Estimate: $75,000-$100,000 US

Lot #8541 1937 Mercedes-Benz 230 A cabriolet Creme over burgundy fenders, no substantial information regarding this specific car in the catalogue other than 'restored several years ago to a high standard and has been properly maintained ever since. Described as in good working condition, the vehicle has been fully finished for the auction.' No estimate

Lot #8574 1972 Mercedes-Benz 250 C Coupe: tobacco brown with ivory roof/tan interior, unrestored, automatic, power windows, repainted twelve years ago, 150k miles, California car, No estimate.

Lot #8533 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Convertible Conversion, converted to open configuration from (presumably) a 3.5 coupe, $30,000 spent on the conversion/restoration. No estimate.

Dare I say the Roadster's rear 3/4 view is more attractive than the Gullwing's? I'd say vastly so. Increased chassis side rail wall thickness, additional A-post support struts and an additional crossmember behind the seats will insure stability and reduce scuttle shake.

SLS Roadster final development continues. Pounding pre-production Roadsters around the banks of the fabled Untertuerkheim test track is essential to chase potential refinement issues. The same track saw similar tests albeit at a rather slower pace for Fintails and sundry other production cars.

Round One, turn one of the 2011 ADAC Masters season: A Lamborghini leads the jostling pack. We see Audis, SLSs and a Corvette bracketing an SLS.

Race 1: The SLS GT3s of Primajob Team Heico, MS Racing and Black Falcon finish fifth, sixth and seventh separated by less than one second.

Crash testing a GT3? With racing speeds approaching 200 mph, AMG must insure driver safety in the event of accidents. Here we see a direct driver side impact test simulating the worst nightmare for a racing driver. This is another example of AMG's thorough preparation.

Safety beneath the surface: We see the triangulated roll cage, deep wraparound seat, wraparound head rest, alloy spaceframe structure and the on-board fire system.

Hamann Hawk: Starting at the front there is a new front bumper fascia with LED lights and enlarged air inlets. Carbon fiber hood allows hot air to escape while the fender flairs provide an extra 60mm on each front side and 70mm on each rear side. Side skirts, rear bumper fascia with diffuser and carbon fiber wing round out the body kit. Performance of the already potent 6.2-liter V8 engine is enhanced with high-performance titanium exhaust manifolds and sports catalysts while a sports air filter is used on the intake side. In concert with a remapped engine control unit, power output is raised to 636 PS (628 bhp / 468 kW) from the standard 571 PS (420 kW / 563 hp) for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). The coilover kit with four height-adjustable dampers and four progressively wound springs lower the center of gravity by up to 30 millimeters. Wheels are Hamann's own lightweight forged wheels in 9Jx21 with tires measuring 245/30 ZR 21 at the front and 12.5Jx21 with tires measuring 345/25 ZR 21 at the rear.

Mansory Cormeum: Designed and named by the tuner's owner and head designer Kourosh Mansory, the SLS gets wrapped in a complete carbon shell for a 90 kg weight-saving diet and a substantially revised look. The body kit includes a new lightweight roof and wing doors, front skirt with large air inlets, widening fenders that extend the SLS by 66 mm at the front axle and 84 mm at the rear axle, as well as side skirts that make the sport coupe appear lower. At the back is a rear spoiler with carbon flaps and a race diffuser for additional downforce. Engine tuning consists of increasing output to 660 PS (485 kW / 651 bhp) while a performance upgrade to 800 PS (588 kW / 789 bhp) is also in the works. For the wheels are 9 x 20 inch rims at the front with 265/30R20 Michelin tires and 11 x 21 inchers at the back wrapped in 295/25R20 Michelins. New springs and dampers lower the SLS AMG by 20 mm too. On the inside Mansory does its luxuriating thing with a hand fitted soft leather finish with decorative stitching, carbon trim, of course, a newly designed center console and other touches such as the aluminum pedals and sport steering wheel with a full-sized airbag. The name, Cormeum, comes from an operatic aria called Vide Cor meum composed by Patrick Cassidy and based on a sonnet in Dante's "La Vita Nuova".

The Classic Center in Fellbach stores the few C111s constructed. Note the two other examples sitting in storage compartments above this car. What would this car sell for on the open market?

Coming soon to a street near you? Perhaps. Alonso faced stiff legal opposition from the Mercedes-Benz legal department challenging his plan for the Panamericana Gullwing project. That project has died. Perhaps the Ciento Once will go forward.

Detroit Auto Show January 10, 2011: Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG proudly announces production plans for the SLS E-Cell

Hustling around the Dubai Autodrome; Seventh place finisher Heico Motorsports leads a Porsche 911 and a fellow SLS GT3 entrant. Note the vastly slower BMWs in the background.

A new SLS GT3 receiving service and a driver change under the lights in Dubai. Short pants in the racing pits where refueling takes place?

Roaring into the history books: The brilliant SLS will shine on all fronts in 2011.

Parting Shot: Hurling the GT3 through Dubai Autodrome's swerves at day's end.

Lot #121: 1970 280SL Horizon Blue w/Midnight Blue two-tone. "This SL boasts a limited ownership record of only three caretakers, each of whom pampered the car and used it sparingly. The roadster is finished with a high quality re-spray in Powder Blue... It also has its convertible soft top and original brightwork. The engine bay of this attractive SL has been detailed... reupholstered blue MB tex seats and matching carpets... black door panels and dash trim that are believed to be original... automatic transmission, air-conditioning, AM/FM radio and bumper guards... toolkit and owner’s manuals.. well-preserved and unharmed example of this modern classic." SOLD for $49,500. Hmm, while the images looked fairly encouraging, the engine bay shot reveals black inner aprons (a definite no-no ) and a fairly messy right front fender edge. After chatting with my spies I'm told the hood/front fenders and nose of this car had been crudely replaced. So, we have another example of a sub-standard Pagoda bringing $50k. And the brochure description certainly did not help things by noting it to be "unharmed" and "an example that has never been restored, it is remarkably preserved." These comments were absolute nonsense. I'll note this sale as overpriced by $20k or 40%. Or, as Keith Martin of SCM says, "well sold." Indeed.

Lot #55: 2008 Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster, 575 miles, Silver/Red. SOLD $264,000. Not a bad buy here. Have SLRs stopped depreciating? Not quite, but they are quite likely reaching a short term bottom. This car had a suggested list price new of just under $500k although there were massive cash incentives from Mercedes-Benz to dealers in 2008. At $264k, this SLR sale represents an excellent supercar value.

Lot #163: 1960 300SL Roadster, Fire Engine Red/Tan, Chassis No. 198.042.10.002610, both tops, luggage. "This well-sorted SL has experienced a pampered life and remains in very presentable condition inside and out... awarded Best in Class at the Louisville Concours at Churchill Downs, Kentucky, in 2008... it has never had a complete or ground-up restoration, but has been refurbished as needed and always kept in healthy, running order..." SOLD for $627,000.

Lot #164: 1967 300SE Cabriolet White Grey/Green, 1 of 5 five-speed manual gearbox 300SE's on the planet. "... light gray over a rich, light-olive green leather... AM/FM Becker Europa radio, optional power windows, single seats, left and right rearview mirrors, a cream fabric top, 4.08:1 limited-slip axle and the highly desirable five-speed ZF manual transmission... One of only five 300 SE models produced with this option, it is the only one known to have been delivered to the US... and the very rare example presented here is in turn-key condition thanks to a thorough mechanical reconditioning by McCay’s Boston Sportscar Company last summer." SOLD for $112,750. While this is massive money for a 112 Cabriolet - well into 'driver' 3.5 cabriolet territory - it's the only 112 cabriolet in the US with a five-speed. It was reported to be presented in lovely order although not fully restored. Presuming the complicated M189 series engine is healthy and leak free and the air suspension behaves properly, I'd consider this cabriolet fairly bought.

Lot #25: 1956 300Sc Roadster Chassis No. 188.015.5500030 Silver Blue Metallic/Red leather. "The consignor of this magnificent Sc, a noted authority on early post-war Mercedes-Benz... a concours level restoration. In fact, Walter Quitt, who has rebuilt literally dozens of 300 Sc drivelines, had already overhauled the engine and transmission. The body and chrome, as well as the differential and brakes, were restored by the highly respected Rudi & Co. of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The trunk of this handsome Sc is outfitted with dual spare wheels and fitted with 300 Sc Roadster-only luggage... Ken Nemanic, who has trimmed no fewer than seven Pebble Beach Best of Show-winning entries, upholstered the interior and restored the folding top using the proper plastic rear window with the factory- correct markings. The restoration was completed in late 2008 in time for the Sc to make its debut at the Mercedes-Benz Starfest, held in San Francisco that year. The car was awarded Best in Show at that event and has since competed at the Palo Alto, Hillsborough and Marin-Sonoma concours taking Best in Class honors each time. In June 2010, this gleaming Roadster was again shown at Palo Alto where it received the Meguiar’s Best Exterior Finish award." SOLD for $660,000. The buyer can take great comfort knowing this Sc was restored under the watchful eye of a particularly knowledgeable owner using the best materials and vendors. I purchased this seller's 1952 300S coupe a few years ago. He's a serious student of this series of Mercedes. This roadster was casually offered to me early 2010 for substantially more than what was realized here. The new owner has a fully sorted Sc roadster that is ready for any tour and is a certain concours winner. I'd say this buyer made quite a nice purchase.

Lot #19 1956 300SL Chassis No. 198.040.6500037. Silver Blue metallic/Blue leather. "According to factory records, this Gullwing was suitably equipped for export to the US... light blue metallic (DB 353) over complementary blue leather upholstery... it appears as though this Gullwing was intended for high-speed road use or possibly even some competition... this car was desirably optioned with Rudge knock-off wheels and the high-performance sport engine. The competition-tuned power plant featured a number of upgrades, including a high-lift NSL camshaft and a Bosch R3 fuel-injection pump that extracted approximately 240 bhp – a good deal more than the standard SL engine." Throughout four and a half decades in his care, various cosmetic and mechanical aspects were addressed; however, the well-built Mercedes- Benz never warranted a complete, ground-up restoration. Even today, it is best described as a carefully maintained example that has been extremely well-kept and refurbished... thanks to decades of fastidious care, it remains in outstanding overall condition." SOLD for $858,000.

Lot #126 1962 300SL Chassis No. 198.042.10.003020. "Finished in Fire Engine Red (DB 534) with a black soft top, the US- specification car... Becker AM/FM radio, a black hardtop and Continental whitewall tires... disc brakes with the rugged cast-iron engine... The SL was driven sparingly during its first few years before being retired from use with just over 7,000 miles on the odometer. Evidence of its last use on the road is a Pennsylvania registration sticker that expired on January 31, 1970. In recent months, the respected restoration firm returned this SL to running order without disturbing the impressive originality of the engine bay. Throughout the interior and exterior, this Roadster wears the unmistakable signs of an untouched “time-warp” example." SOLD for $951,500. One of the long hidden C. Jewett Henry SLs. Wisely presented in essentially "as-found" cosmetic condition, this disc brake, cast iron block roadster represents the Holy Grail for any thoughtful 198 series Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. The interest in un-restored "survivors" of any make continues to grow and this roadster is about as good as it will get within the realm of fully documented untouched original 300SLs. As such it was rewarded with a staggering end price. I'm told Gooding had to work the room surprisingly hard to move the bidding out of the $600k range. Mr. Henry's other roadster, an 11k mile ivory/red 1963 sold quietly last year to one of our newsletter subscribers for similar money. The red car's price eclipses that of the 7652 mile disc brake, alloy block example sold August 2009 by a whopping $147,000. I'd peg this sale as market correct: Where will you find the next such example?

1965 220SE Cabriolet, Ivory/Tan Chassis No. 11102312082595. "This car is a final year 220SE. With Bosch mechanical fuel injection, disc brakes, power steering and automatic transmission... Prior to its acquisition by the Jacobs Collection, this car had been owned by one family for the past 30 years and maintained to the highest standards... owner’s manual and service books and records show the engine was rebuilt, with other parts replaced as needed... #716 (Grey Beige)." SOLD for $66,000. We've seen this car offered most recently by the Blackhawk Collection in California. While this is massive money - nice 1968-1969 280SE Cab territory - for a 220SE cabriolet, my sources note that it was spectacular in every respect. While RM notes "716 Grey Beige," I see 670 light ivory. At this price level, I'd skip the 13" wheels, rear drum brakes and the paltry 120hp and opt for a nice 250SE or 280SE cabriolet. In this case superb condition ruled the day and the early 111 cabriolets certainly offer some additional charm over the later editions.

Lot #278 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220SE Cabriolet Chassis No. 12803010003645. "This beautifully restored 220SE Cabriolet from 1960 is a late-production W128, which has been driven very sparingly and shows less than 88,000 miles... near perfect, show-quality condition throughout. The metallic green exterior finish is virtually devoid of cosmetic imperfections, and the car presents very nicely with excellent panel fit and gaps, a show-quality undercarriage, a beautifully trimmed interior with cream-colored leather upholstery with green piping, green carpeting and a clean, correct and properly detailed engine bay. The grey-lined Haartz cloth convertible top is well-fitted, showing only a few cosmetic imperfections... stainless-steel exhaust system... Becker Mexico radio, a working electric clock, and wide whitewall tires... jack and a spare tire, presented virtually brand new and commensurate with the rest of the car. Most recently, the car was mechanically sorted by RM Auto Restoration... original owner’s manual and original books in their correct plastic pouch." SOLD for $165,000. A good dealer client of MercedesHeritage just paid $140k for a similar car in silver/blue. The seller received $145k ($165k - buyer's and seller's 10% fees) here. My spies confirm RMs glowing catalog assessment. Fairly bought. However, the seller could have made one phone call to the right dealer and received about the same money, particularly after deducting shipping and entry costs from his/her net proceeds.

1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster Chassis No. 19804210002592. "Fresh meticulous restoration - Proven on tour in the 2009 Colorado Grand." " In single ownership from the early 1960s into the 21st century... regularly maintained by marque specialists. In 1998-99, a previous owner had Hyannis Restorations in Massachusetts conduct a comprehensive restoration. This involved stripping to bare metal and refinishing in white, restoring all brightwork and installing a red leather interior with matching carpets. The current owner acquired the car in 2004 and entrusted it to the award-winning restoration center of Symbolic Motor Car Company in San Diego, California. It emerged with classic silver paint, set off with blackwall tires and European-style headlamps... All the mechanical systems, brakes and suspension were rebuilt... new red leather interior was installed by Hjeltness Restoration of Escondido, California, respected 300SL specialists. With new tires and a hot camshaft, the car was prepared for the Colorado Grand in 2009, a week-long invitational classic rally through the scenic Rocky Mountains. During the event it ran flawlessly, overcoming all 300SL challengers." SOLD for $572,000. Based on the catalog, this seems a well bought roadster that has been sorted for immediate tour and event use. While we never like color changes, the predictable change to silver with red leather is hard to beat.

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe White/Red Chassis No. 1980404500049. "Of particular note, the red leather interior of the 300SL is completely original... factory-correct white exterior finish represents an older repaint revealing some signs of aging. Mechanically, the 300SL is factory correct in specification with the exception of upgrades under Mr. Aoki’s ownership, including a four-wheel disc brake conversion in the style of the Mercedes-Benz 600, with dual-caliper units up front... stainless-steel fuel tank... comprehensive and recent mechanical re-commissioning under the current owner by Kevin Kay Restorations... new Koni shock absorbers and a stainless-steel exhaust system. In addition, the Bosch mechanical fuel-injection system was inspected and tuned." SOLD for $450,000. While RM notes the car sold "Confidential," my sources note the car hammered at $450,000 which would result in RM reporting a "sold" price of $495,000. This is a little stiff for a car fitted with Mercedes 600 brakes (evidently including the 600's two caliper per front disc arrangement). Retrofitting to the correct system will be expensive. Backing the numbers up, we estimate the seller walked away with about $405k. A phone call to me would have put the seller a little ahead of that figure without the aggravation of entry fees, transportation and the auction hoopla. The Auction environment may have worked against this particular Gullwing seller. However, that same environment can also work for sellers as the example below illustrates...

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Anthracite Grey/Red leather Chassis No. 1980405500601. "... a comprehensive, professional restoration conducted to the highest standards... properly maintained and cared for, although rarely, if ever, seeing road use. The graphite grey paint and brightwork appear to be outstanding... The interior is likewise pristine and as-new, upholstered in red leather. The odometer shows less than 29,000 kilometers. The engine bay is commensurate with the balance of the car – show quality through and through. Notable features on this spectacular 300SL include a highly desirable set of Rudge wheels and a matching set of fitted luggage." SOLD for $1,375,000. No, that's not a typo, the buyer (a gentleman from Japan we're told) transferred almost $1.4 million dollars to RM's coffers to secure this Gullwing. This is what NASA would refer to as an "anomaly" or what statisticians refer to as an "outlier." While the car presented itself in superb (if not overly shiny) fashion, there was nothing present to suggest the price paid here or for that matter even $900,000. It defies logic. So we can likely point the finger toward at least two over capitalized, undereducated bidders. It's the auction house dream scenario and it catapulted this stunning Gullwing into uncharted territory for a steel car. This sale is also a lesson in color/trim appeal. Would this car have made the same money if it was still in its original livery of white/blue? Absolutely not. Well sold would not even begin to describe this sale. Congratulations to RM for placing a superb Gullwing under the noses of two of the most optimistic (naïve?) bidders on the planet.

Lot #9111 1986 560SL Arctic White/Gray WDBBA48D4GA037771 "89K miles and runs and drives extremely well. It is white with a black convertible top, gray interior and includes the white hard top with a stand and cover. The interior is in excellent condition with wood inserts that look close to new. This is a garage kept vehicle. The mechanicals are in very good condition with almost new shocks, upper & lower control arm bushings, good fluids and sub frame and motor mounts that are a few years old. Paint is in very good condition. The convertible top is in very good condition with no rips or tears, however, the windows are cloudy. The air conditioning works as it should and blows ice-cold. The cruise control works as do all the accessories." SOLD for $10,120. The images provided reveal a tidy and clean 560SL. If the ABS and SRS systems are in order and there are minimal oil leaks, this 560 seems a good value.

Lot #9129 ID# 10704412020567 "This 1974 Mercedes-Benz 450SL has a new top and two hard tops. It also has new tires, brakes, and master cylinder. It was recently repainted to a high professional standard. It was recently tuned-up with many new air conditioning parts installed. It has a CD player, power windows, brakes and steering. It is in great shape inside and out and this stylish 450SL drives like a brand new Mercedes." SOLD for $8,250. We certainly can't complain about this deal. With refurbished AC, 560SL style wheels and a CD player the new owner has acquired a boulevard cruiser for a pittance. Well bought.

Lot #9112 ID# WDBFA76E3RF102906 Arctic White/Blue "This 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL600 is a very nice and clean car that runs and drives extremely well... less than 37k miles with no known issues or problems. All the features work properly. The tires have a few thousand miles on them... The lower body panels and bumpers were painted to match body color. The stereo is a new Alpine unit with built in satellite with controls the CD changer in the trunk. It is iPod compatible with remote control... chrome wheels and pop up cup holders in the console. Always garaged and it currently resides in a climate controlled facility. It does not have the hard top." SOLD for $14,250. I like the R129 series V12s but Mercedes mechanics do not. A hard top could be found for less $500 and repainted/dyed to match for another $700. This seems a proper deal with a few very big ifs: IF the engine wiring harness is recent and IF there are no substantial oil leaks and IF the self-leveling suspension is in order the new owner has acquired a silky smooth and muscular cruiser at a fair price.

Lot #9176 ID#WDBFA76E7RF086452 "This 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL600 V12 Roadster has always been serviced at a Mercedes-Benz dealer... complete books and records... finished in red with a black black leather interior. It is equipped with an extensive list of options including two tops. It is a fully loaded car. As close to perfect as you can get. It is in new car condition, has been garage kept and never driven in rain. There are 40K miles on the V/12 6-liter, 389 HP engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission" SOLD for $22,000. I see 2000 SL500 base wheels which are particularly bland. The originals actually look better. This Imperial Red V12 impressed based on its description and generated a full $7,500 more than the 37k mile white SL600 above. The color and trim combination is more compelling but $22k buys a 2000 or later SL600 in California. This was an expensive SL although in fabulous order.

Lot #9496 ID#1980405500791 1955 300SL Body-off restored in 2006 by Mark Passarelli. Mechanicals done by Bill Richardson. Retrofitted with AC and only 500 miles since the restoration. Fitted with Passarelli luggage and rudge wheels but no bumper overriders. SOLD for $704,000. Both Mark Passarelli and Bill Richardson are long time Gullwing specialists and this car has all the right ingredients although there is no mention of belly pans. While the saddle leather is a less harmonious interior choice than green or crème, this is a Gullwing to be proud of. Barring any substantial panel fit issues, I'd consider this car fairly bought.

Lot #7241 ID#11304412005348 1969 280SL in 268 Green/Cognac leather, Automatic/AC, Full cosmetic restoration at one time, detailed engine bay, no bumper guards: SOLD for $33,275. I see an attractive, consistent appearing 280SL. And I think I can see the important spot welds securing each front fender to the engine bay inner aprons. Presuming all the work was performed to accepted professional standards and suitable attention was paid to the mechanicals and no structural horrors, I'd say this Pagoda was on the cheap side. Well bought.

Lot #7006 ID#11102712000709 1971 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet Middle Blue Metallic/Tan. Noted as restored and certainly looking the part, this 3.5 looks superb. It was obviously fully disassembled and reflects enormous money spent. SOLD for $170,500. I don't see any correct engine bay decals and some moderate bleaching of the upper interior wood - minor issues. If the massive cosmetic preparation was supported with commensurate mechanical freshening, I see a fair deal here and substantial 3.5 Cabriolet money in today's environment.

Lot #7061 ID#A1210401001103 1961 190SL White/Black There is no substantial information in the description other than "restored" engine and body: SOLD for $31,900. The missing rocker chrome trim and missing rear reflectors definitely erode any confidence that the restoration was done by a knowledgeable specialist. It's a non-soft top car as per the VIN prefix and I don't see any trace of a soft top. And the trunk lock has yet to be fitted. I have a feeling a closer look at this car would reveal more needs. It seems to be the typical poorly done 190SL that will be ignored by a serious 190SL buyer. For his/her $32k, the new owner will get the 190SL look but will face a barrage of complaints at any 190SL meet.

Lot #7148 ID#11102412004212 1970 280SE Coupe Silver/Blue sunroof, floor shift automatic US model, AC, Noted as "restored" SOLD for $27,500. This is a fundamentally desirable car. Any "low grille" 111 coupe with a sunroof and console automatic will generate interest. The images provided support the restoration claim and the undercarriage looks spotless with many new parts (calipers etc) visible. It's fitted with the correct hydro-compensator "5th" spring and the engine bay is very tidy. If it performs as well as it looks, I'd say the car was a good value.

Lot #6480 ID#10704412035659 1977 450SL Astral Silver/Black, aftermarket 16" alloys, 560SL wood, no useful information in the description: SOLD for $8,800. Nothing to quibble about here. If the car drives well and the timing chain isn't ready to fail and 70% of the climate controls function, the buyer has a cheap and attractive summer cruiser.

Lot #9086 ID#180010109503564 1957 220S Red/Tan. No useful information in the description other than "restored in the Philippines." SOLD for $4,400. At this price, if the car can be driven safely, I'd call this a fair deal. Who cars if all the interior materials are incorrect and there will be some surprisingly clever but laughable modifications. The new owner will have people surrounding this dayglow red ponton sedan whenever he/she parks it.

Lot #9425 ID#250SE10086122 1967 250SE Coupe Silver/Blue 4 spd manual, sunroof, $23k spent on parts(!) during the previous owner's reconditioning. SOLD for $15,950. Missing rr wheel trim ring, unpainted wheel caps, missing data plate on core support, obvious mis-matched spot paint repairs right front fender/door area. If the $23k was well spent on a largely rust and collision free coupe, I see a decent value here. The manual gearbox is somewhat rare in any 111 coupe and adds some cache. Fair money for a sunroof 250SE coupe.

Lot #9538 ID#WDBFA67E6SF112313 1995 SL500 Pearl(?) Black/Black 87k miles, no accidents, no particularly useful information in the description: SOLD for $12,650. $12.6k for a reasonably sorted early R120 SL? Not too bad. We like all the R129s as they are quick and quite all around usable SLs. And cheap! But they are very complicated and just a few significant maladies can generate jaw-dropping repairs. A fair value here if the usual maladies (engine harness, hydraulic top apparatus, climate controls) are in order.

Lot #1581 ID#WDBFA76F3XF173884 1999 SL600 Renntech Black/Red. " Rare collectible 7.4L V12, 48-valve, 575hp. RENNtech monster... less than 16,000 original miles. Collector owned.. no dings, dents or scratches. Original paint... based on a 1999 SL600 V12... RENNtech conversion... 452cid 7.4L engine with 575hp and 600ft/lbs of torque... 200mph... featured in Car and Driver... 0-150mph-0 in 28 seconds... carbon fiber interior and custom two tone red and black leather interior... upgraded transmission, suspension and brakes... recent service record... serviced by RENNtech in the past... no mechanical issues." SOLD for $47,300. What a brute! With 575hp, it seems this hot rod R129 would be able to see of any later SL55 in drag race. Massively expensive when new the car's selling price reflects an attractive relative value. But, what does $47k buy today in a later SL? It buys a 2005 SL65 with 20k miles - 604hp and a car that sold new for about $194k. While this Renntech SL600 will be a blast to drive and the Car and Driver article, it will does not offer the driving dynamics (and more contemporary appearance) of a factory SL65. I see a wonderful car but too much money in my eyes.

Lot #1527 ID#WDBBA45A0CB018200 1982 380SL Blue/Blue. "30,000 original miles. Rare China Blue two tone. All original unrestored true time piece. All updates completed. This is the last year of the very desirable 380SL. China Blue and Marine Blue with blue leather interior and a blue softtop. A rare find and an absolutely stunning color combination." SOLD for $36,300. Where are these buyers when I need them? I gave away a 1980 450SL w/20k miles last year for $15k. The aftermarket wheels must go but the factory two-tone is quite rare. What does $36k buy in the 107 SL arena? How about a spotless and correct 1989 560SL with 9k miles on the clock! This buyer vastly overpaid for the least admired 107 series SL. Does "all updates completed" mean the later double width timing chain system has been retrofitted? If not, this buyer will be spending another $3k. I have a feeling this seller purchased drinks for anyone at the auction within 100 feet of him.

Lot #622.1 ID#WDBFA68F52F203483 2002 SL500 Silver Arrow Edition. "... 2002 exclusive Silver Arrow package to commemorate the final year of the much loved R129 body style... MSRP of $87k... exclusively trimmed two-tone interior, dark stained wood interior trim, and engine-turned metal interior accents and additional aluminum interior and exterior pieces, heated seats, xenon headlamps, two-piece 18-inch wheels, the AMG sport aero package, and Silver Arrow badging... complete owners manuals in their original leather folio... 71-point inspection from the Park Place Service Center." SOLD for $20,900. No mileage is noted so based on the selling price; we'll assume lowish miles, hopefully less than 30k. The Silver Arrows are a mixed bag featuring lovely wheels and metallic interior trim touches with the garish two-tone leather and the glittery ultra-metallic paint. The paint finish recalls that of a drum set. With only 1,450 V8 cars built, this car is somewhat rare which helps values. All in all, I'd say a fair price. If this was a 70k mile example, it was too much.

Lot #386 ID#WDBFA63FXVF153207 1997 SL320 40th anniversary edition. "To commemorate Mercedes 40 year anniversary of their roadster, Mercedes built 250 limited 320SL's in a one time only Quartz Blue color with matching Royal Maple interior trim... all options available included. The 250 roadsters were delivered one per dealer... always been garaged and covered since new. No damage... serviced by the book. 49,150 actual miles."SOLD for $33,000. Wow! Yes, Mercedes only built 250 examples but it's a six cylinder and the interior wood color causes most people to gasp. This is the last year of the 3.2 liter R129 SL in the US. We've sold 2002 V12 SL600 Silver Arrows for about the same money and only 100 of these were constructed! This sale represented massive money. I'm now convinced to take my entire inventory to Barrett Jackson next year.

Lot #360 ID#WDB1290761F172426 "Rare and desirable euro model with 12 cylinder engine and 6,815 original miles... automatic softtop and removable hardtop, 5-speed automatic, electric roll bar, AMG wheels, leather interior, climate control, CD player, wind deflector, fuel injected, 389hp, 12 cylinder engine, cruise control, electric tilt wheel, remote locks, power windows, Euro side lamp markers, power disc brakes, original tool kit, original first aid kit, original owners manual and books." SOLD for $29,150. A Euro model? That's quite unusual. If it was imported as a new car the mileage may be suspect due the DOT requirement of 7,500 miles before importation. If it came in as a used car later, the odometer was changed to US specs. Either way, Euro cars always have a slight cloud over the mileage. I suppose a true 6,800 miles SL600 becomes a $30k car with the usual V-12 caveats.

Lot #19.1 ID#WDBFA67E3RF088336 1994 SL500 Smoke Silver/Creme. "A rare color of Desert Sand/Palomino interior. You can pick the hardtop or the softtop. One will always be in style. This well maintained automobile has never been damaged. Fresh tires, new battery, factory alloy wheels, telephone and CD changer. All maintenance records from new are available with car as well as the hardtop." SOLD for $19,250. I must have missed a massive market surge for R129 SLs. In CA this car brings $11k. No miles are mentioned so we'll assume less than 100k on the clock. Based on my experience buying R129 SLs from private parties, all of them require a further $2k-$4k to sort out. Big money here and well sold.

Lot #1514.1 ID#WDBBA45A5EA001921 1984 380SL "Metallic green original paint. Good condition. Body in great shape. Leather interior. New softtop. Hardtop with rack. Looks great. Run beautifully. 121,500 original miles." SOLD for $11,000. I suppose if this 380SL is well sorted this was fair money. The color(Blue Green)/trim combination helped hear.