Before we get on to the main hub of the article, let me start by saying this is a replica of the famous 300 SLR but don't go anywhere just yet. Even the replica is very special - and rare. This particular car will be offered for auction by Classic Race Aarhus Auction hosted by Silverstone Auctions and Lauritz.com in Denmark on 28th and 29th May.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR was made famous for its Mille Miglia in 1955, when it was driven to glory by Sir Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson. Only nine of the original models were made, with just six of them in existence today.
As mentioned previously what we have here is a replica, but even so, just five of these were made Jim Marland, the original founder of Proteus Sports & Racing Cars. So on that basis one would argue these are rarer than the real McCoy. The car was for auction is the fifth and final model made from the limited production was constructed over 2 years.
It was made to the exact dimensions of the original and the body is handcrafted from aluminum by Clive Smart at Shapecraft. Powering this 'blast from the past' is a Mercedes-Benz 280E engine which is attached to a four speed manual gearbox rebuilt by Crewe engines.
To give the 300 SLR recreation the authentic touches it has used genuine Mercedes-Benz parts and has hand-painted dials and instruments giving it a period look. Like the exterior, the interior has been handmade, adding to quality of this item. It may not be one of the originals but even so, the car is estimated at around £251,000-£283,000.