The W198 300 SL Gullwing and its Roadster counterpart are probably the most iconic Mercedes-Benz models ever made. They are also some the most expensive classic cars on the market today, so the simple fact of owning one is something special. Why would anyone try to “improve” on what is one of Mercedes’ most beautiful cars is a mystery to us.
Nevertheless, German design studio Atelier Valdeig thinks it can make the 300 SL Roadster look better with a concept for a widebody package. Before getting into details, we should tell you that for the moment, Atelier Valdeig has only done computer renderings, with no real 300 SL being harmed so far.
Valdeig’s idea of a better 300 SL Roadster was originally planned for a replica automaker, but the deal fell through. Unfortunately, this didn’t stop the company from continuing its work to develop a new look for the 300 SL. Atelier Valdeig came up with wider fenders to accommodate modern 16-inch Revolution wheels with white wall tires. However, the project allows for even bigger rims from Carlsson or wire wheels from muscle cars.
Speaking of muscle cars, you’ve probably noticed by now the Corvette C1-style side panels painted in a different color from the body. Another of Valdeig’s ideas is to offer the car with two types of headlights: vertical ones that we all know from the 300 SL Roadster or round ones taken from the 300 SL Gullwing.
Valdeig also offers different types of taillights and side pipes for the exhaust system. So there you have it, the 300 SL Roadster brought into the 21st century (against its own will, we should add). We’re dying to hear your opinion on this tuning proposal.
By Dan Mihalascu
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