1954 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupé
- Engine
- 3.0L SOHC inline-six with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, 215 bhp (DIN) / 240 bhp (SAE)
- Colour
- Metallic candy apple red
Chassis 198.040.4500120 is an early 1954-model Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, among the first examples produced, delivered new through Max Hoffman's New York showroom in Light Blue Metallic. Its first owner, George Tilp — a prominent American sports car racing patron and the first employer of Phil Hill — reportedly had the car campaigned in 1955–56 events. Racing driver and engineer Jim Hall purchased it directly from Tilp in 1956, drove it to Texas, and had it repainted in metallic candy apple red with a tan interior, where it has remained ever since. The car retains its original wheels, numerous factory tags, and period-installed air conditioning.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold US$1,045,000
- 1954-12-01 → 1956Factory deliveryGeorge Tilppartial documentation
Car was registered under one of his family's corporate entities and reportedly used in competition during 1955 and 1956, though this could not be definitively verified.
- 1956 →Private saleJim Hallpartial documentation
Purchased directly from Tilp and drove it to Texas, where he had it repainted and fitted with a factory-style air conditioning system; retained the car for decades.
Competition
- —Elkhart Lake (unspecified event)Driver: Paul O'Shea
The car was reportedly entered by the Tilp team at Elkhart Lake sometime in 1955 or 1956, but participation could not be conclusively confirmed.
Maintenance & restoration
- 1956Bodywork
Exterior refinished in metallic candy apple red and interior retrimmed in tan vinyl after Jim Hall acquired the car and transported it to Texas.
These finishes remain on the car to the present day.
- 1956Modification
A period air conditioning system was professionally fitted in an unobtrusive manner, with controls housed in a fabric-covered nacelle beneath the dashboard.
The installation is considered notably clean compared to typical aftermarket units of the era and remains in the car.
- —Service
In preparation for the auction the car was serviced and returned to full running and driving condition, though additional maintenance is recommended before extended use.
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