The coachbuilt SL aims to pay tribute to the 300SL Gullwing, but it falls short of doing justice to the iconic sports car
Coachbuilt cars can be exceptional, blending modern power, performance, and amenities with a nostalgic retro aesthetic. The Radford Lotus Type 62-2 and Zagato Iso Rivolto are prime examples of this craftsmanship. Unfortunately, this Mercedes-Benz 300SL homage by Saoutchik misses the mark.
Credit to Saoutchik for the effort, but this retro-inspired Mercedes SL probably should have remained a concept. Designed by Ugur Sahin (a designer known for many far better creations) in partnership with Pogea Racing, the project revives the Saoutchik name, a renowned French coachbuilder from the 1920s and 1930s, after 70 years.
Saoutchik hasn’t disclosed what powers the 300GTC, but the standard Mercedes-AMG SL offers several engine options. The base SL43 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with mild-hybrid assist, producing 416 horsepower. The SL55 comes with a twin-turbo V8 delivering 469 horsepower, while the SL63 ups that to 577 horsepower. For even more power, there’s the SL63 S E Performance with a staggering 805 hp—more than enough to outrun the car’s questionable design choices.
Fortunately, only a limited number of these coachbuilt models will be produced. Saoutchik plans to create just 15 examples of the 300GTC. Although the price remains undisclosed, it’s safe to assume each one will come with an eye-watering price tag. As they say, money can’t buy taste.
