Petrol direct injection, Bosch in-line injection pump
Tank capacity
100 liter
Coolant
Approx. 20 liter
Lubrication
Dry sump
Torque
275 Nm at 4600 rpm
Max. power
165/158 kW (225/215 HP)
Rated speed
5900 rpm
Max. speed
6000 / 6400 rpm
Powertrain
Front engine with rear drive
Clutch
Single disc, dry
Transmission
Four-speed, floor-mounted shifter
Axle drive
5 possible ratios from 3,64 to 4,11
Wheelbase
2400 mm
Front suspension
Triangle-transverse arm
Rear suspension
Single joint-swing axle with extra deep pivot point, coil springs, coil-auxiliary springs
Steering
Ball steering
Brakes f/r
4 Alu/cast iron-drums, brake booster, since 1961 discs
Tyres
6.50 or 6.70 - 15 (5,5")
Length
4570 mm
Width
1790 mm
Height
1300 mm
Basic weight
1330 kg
Top speed
208 - 250 km/h dependent on the rear axle ratio
Manufactured
1957 - 1963
Extra
Hardtop
Electric system
12 V/ 56 Ah
The tubes in so far only approx. 50 kg light frame are much thicker and partly changed around the seats. This results in a convertible with normal doors and crank windows. The curb weight increases albeit with losses in the acceleration values. 10 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h are still special values for the time. Then there is the new single-joint swing axle for a little less positive camber during rebound.
Of course at that time belongs to a convertible a hardtop for winter. It's the end of the luggage set behind the seats. For this is created space above tank and spare wheel space on the rear. Maximilian Hoffman, the American importer for Mercedes is satisfied. He had claimed the 300 SL for America and first received 'only' the coupe.
In front all lights now are integrated into one headlight. These also include the mist, standing, parking and indicator lights. The simple yet beautifully designed dashboard includes except leather cover and tachometer respectively revolution counter, still a vertical 'midrib', in the are summarized all other gauges and warning lights. The windscreen washer still is in its infancy.
The technical innovation goes even further. 1961 the brakes switched from duplex drums to discs. Thus, unfortunately, also disappear the central locks. The engine block is now made from aluminum.