£250,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of a unique Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Gullwing’, which was stolen from a hotel car park near the world-famous Nürburgring racing circuit during the hottest weekend of the summer.
The one-off 300SL, which is well known on the classic Mercedes scene as the ‘Californian Outlaw’ due to its extensive modifications, was taken on August 11 from the car park of the Dorint Hotel, which is on the outskirts of the iconic German race track. The theft took place overnight, during the Oldtimer Grand Prix classic car race weekend. Local police believe the the car was taken between 1:30am and 10am local time.
As well as its extensive customisation, the car has a lowered roofline, side exhausts, re-profiled bumpers, distinctive ‘double bubble’ roof and a tan ostrich leather interior, which would make it impossible to resell publically. There isn’t another like it, so police and enthusiasts are both baffled as to its disappearance.
Experts believe the car is mostly likely to be broken and rare parts from it to be sold on the black market, due to its high profile provenance.
The Gullwing is believed to be worth in the region of £2 million, though a true valuation is impossible due to its uniquely customized status.
Any information leading to the recovery of the W198 300SL should be directed to the Mayen Police Department on +49 (0)2651-801-0, or the Adenau Police Inspectorate on +49 (0)2691-925-0.
Above: A customised 300SL has been stolen from the Nürburgring.
