1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) 1955 is 1117 kg (2462 lbs). This relatively low weight for a high-performance racing coupe contributes significantly to the car's agility and speed on the track. A lightweight body allows for better acceleration, sharper handling, and improved overall performance, essential factors in motorsport success.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) 1955 generally fits into a standard garage. Standard garages typically accommodate cars up to around 6 meters (19.7 feet) in length and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in width. Since this vehicle measures 4350 mm (4.35 meters or 14.3 feet) in length and 1750 mm (1.75 meters or 5.75 feet) in width, it comfortably fits within these limits, offering sufficient space for easy parking and maneuvering.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) 1955 followed the earlier W196 Grand Prix racers but distinguished itself with coupe-style bodywork and specific design innovations. While the W196 roadster measured around 4000 mm (157.5 inches) in length, the 300 SLR Coupe extended to 4350 mm (171.3 inches), making it notably longer to improve aerodynamics and cockpit space. The width and height remained relatively compact, maintaining the model's racing agility. Overall, the 300 SLR W196S balanced size increases with performance needs, distinguishing itself from predecessors with an aerodynamic coupe body and slightly increased length for enhanced high-speed stability.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) is equipped with 16-inch rims paired with tires sized at 205/90 R16 on the front and 175/95 R16 on the rear. The relatively tall and narrow tires by modern standards were typical of 1950s racing cars. These tire dimensions were designed to optimize grip and stability for the lightweight vehicle during high-speed racing. Wider 205 mm front tires helped with steering responsiveness and cornering precision, while slightly narrower rear tires aided in stability and traction on various track surfaces.

The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) has a low height of 1210 mm (47.6 inches), which contributes significantly to its aerodynamic efficiency. The low stance reduces air resistance, allowing the car to achieve higher speeds on the track. Additionally, the lowered center of gravity from such a compact height improves handling and stability, especially during high-speed cornering, making the driving experience more controlled and responsive for the driver.

While specific wheelbase measurements for the 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) are less commonly cited, its overall length of 4350 mm (171.3 inches) places it comparably among mid-1950s racing coupes. Similar competitors like the Jaguar D-Type and Ferrari 857 S had lengths ranging from roughly 4200 to 4500 mm (165–177 inches). The 300 SLR's dimensions offered a balanced combination of size for stability at speed and compactness for agility, positioning it competitively against these contemporaries in terms of track performance and handling characteristics.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) is renowned for its cutting-edge engineering and racing pedigree. Introduced in 1955, it featured innovations such as a lightweight tubular space frame chassis and advanced fuel-injection engine technology derived from the W196 Grand Prix car. Its coupe body style, designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, combined aerodynamic efficiency with a streamlined, elegant profile. The car was built primarily for endurance and sports car racing, exemplified by its success in events like the Mille Miglia. Despite limited production in 1955, the 300 SLR remains a symbol of 1950s automotive racing excellence.

The 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) evolved from the highly successful W196 roadster but differed primarily in body style and intended racing applications. The W196 was a Grand Prix single-seater race car, whereas the 300 SLR Coupe was developed as a lightweight sports racing coupe suitable for events like the Mille Miglia, which required semi-enclosed cockpits for driver protection over long distances. The coupe body improved aerodynamics and driver comfort but added some weight compared to the open roadster. This shift in design emphasized endurance racing capabilities while retaining much of the roadster's technological innovations.

When compared to other 1950s sports racing cars such as the Jaguar D-Type and Ferrari 857 S, the 300 SLR Coupe (W196S) is similar in size, with a length of 4350 mm (171.3 inches), width of 1750 mm (68.9 inches), and low height of 1210 mm (47.6 inches). Performance-wise, the 300 SLR was highly competitive, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz's advanced fuel-injected inline-8 engine and lightweight tubular frame design. Its design prioritized aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight construction, helping it compete at the highest level in endurance races. Compared to its rivals, the 300 SLR combined innovative engineering with proven racing success, often distinguishing itself through superior speed, handling, and reliability on long-distance circuits.