Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing makes comeback

The 1950s Mercedes-Benz 300SL, better known as the Gullwing Merc, has to be the coolest Benz ever created. For those bored with the SLR, the SL or even the upcoming SLS, the Gullwing has been recreated by an aftermarket firm in Germany, but with modern technology under the skin.

The German outfit calls itself Gullwing GmbH, and their “Retro Gullwing” is a faithful reproduction of the original in most aspects, but ditches the original 212 hp 3.0-litre inline-6 in favour of a 405 hp Mercedes-Benz 5.5-litre V8 with a 7-speed automatic gearbox. Gullwing has also redesigned the chassis, suspension and brakes, and added a host of modern features such as ABS, air-conditioning, modern stereo and navigation.

The Gullwing replica costs the equivalent of Dhs 800,000, with delivery taking anywhere from 10 to 18 months, as only 30 are built per year.