$2 Million One-Off Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Stolen in Germany

When you think you’re having a bad day – imagine being in the shoes of Thomas Rosier. The entrepreneur from Germany is offering a $284,000 reward for information leading to the return of his prized one-off Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, affectionally referred to as “The California Outlaw”. The precious Gullwing, reportedly worth an estimated $2,000,000 USD was stolen in Germany outside of a hotel near the famous Nürburgring.

According to a report report published on MSN.com via a German tabloid Bild (so take the legitimacy with a grain of salt), the vintage car dealer claims that his unique 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing was stolen from the front of a hotel near the famous Nürburgring. He is offering nearly $300,000 US for information leading to the safe return of his precious Benz. The alleged incident occurred outside of the Dorint Am Nürburgring Hocheifel hotel on August 11th, 2018. Mr. Rosier, the owner of the car, indicates that the car was parked in front of the hotel due to the lack of parking in the garage. The theft occurred the night before the Oldtimer Grand Prix to be held the next day.

The “California Outlaw” name was given to this car by a photographer when it was owned by the current collector’s father back in 1980. classic car race meeting at the Green Hell. The car’s uniqueness is attributed to several customized additions years after it rolled off the factory floor with graphite exterior paint and a red interior. Some of the cosmetic enhancements included an eight-centimeter roof chop, a change in exterior paint to black, with chrome stripes, and other minor enhancements.

However, according to many automotive collectible experts, the $2 million estimate is quite inflated. Most collectable cars are given excessive value due to the uniqueness from the factory – not enhancements done after the fact. The statement from Mr. Rosier indicating “the car is off immense emotional value” essentially indicates that the $2 million estimate is more personal than verified.

Since it would be incredibly difficult for this vehicle to be sold on the market (without attracting significant attention), it is the fear of the owner that the rare 300SL Gullwing will be parted out by the thieves. To inspire people to come out of the shadows and regain possession of his prized Gullwing, Rosier has set up a 250,000-euro reward. If you happen to see a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing as described in the information above, the owner can be contacted via email at [email protected]