MBWorld at 2019 Long Beach Grand Prix: Vintage Gullwing Soars

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1955 Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing - 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix

We got in on all the action at the 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix, and couldn’t get enough of this classic Benz racer. 

MBWorld recently attended the 2019 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The event had insane action on the track, and a fleet of notable racers on display. This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing grabbed our attention and wouldn’t let go. This vintage Benz racer is a piece of art. Well, a piece of art that we desperately wanted to open up on the track. But that is frowned upon.

The 300 SL Gullwing is also known as “Slang 500.” Owned by John Sarkisyan, it has been shown at 2018 SEMA and won many car show awards.

1955 Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing - 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix

There’s a lot to take in with this car. Produced from 1954 to 1957 with gullwing doors, it is considered one of the finest race cars Mercedes ever made.

Details of this restomod Benz are truly stunning. It retains its vintage charm, but has a modern attitude, and amenities. This includes the Toyo tires, Brembo brakes, a KW suspension, and custom interiors.

1955 Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing - 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix

A custom blue interior contrasts beautifully the gray body, and the Pagani steering wheel is a sleek touch.

1955 Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing - 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix

The front grille sparkles, thanks to the chrome treatment with bronze added in.

1955 Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing - 2019 Acura Long Beach Grand Prix

Of course, the coolest thing about this masterpiece is that it is no garage queen. You can follow Slang500 on Instagram and see it out and about, on the road. A true Benz lover could not let this sexy sports car gather dust.

Photography for MBWorld by Derin Richardson

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Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.


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