Coachbuilt cars can be truly remarkable. Imagine taking a modern vehicle brimming with contemporary power, performance, and amenities, and adorning it with a nostalgic retro aesthetic. The Radford Lotus Type 62-2 and the Zagato Iso Rivolta are shining examples of exceptional coachbuilding. This Mercedes-Benz 300SL homage by Saoutchik, however, falls short of that mark.
Credit must be given to Saoutchik for their earnest attempt, but this retro-inspired Mercedes-Benz SL likely should have remained a concept. It was crafted by Ugur Sahin Design, known for creating many more visually appealing vehicles, in partnership with Pogea Racing. Saoutchik, a renowned French coachbuilder from the 1920s and 1930s, has re-emerged after a 70-year hiatus.
Dubbed the 300GTC, this coachbuilt SL draws inspiration from the iconic 1950s 300SL 'Gullwing' and is said to embody, "all the spirit and personality of the legendary Mercedes 300SL." While opinions may vary, its radical front end featuring rounded headlights, an elongated rear with ultra-slim taillights, additional vents, and an abundance of chrome accents, leaves much to be desired. The only redeeming feature is the monoblock-style wheels, which look sharp on any vehicle.
Saoutchik has not disclosed the powertrain of the 300GTC, but the standard Mercedes-AMG SL offers several engine options. The base SL43 boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, generating 416 horsepower. The SL55 features a twin-turbo V-8 producing 469 horsepower, while the SL63 delivers 577 horsepower. There's even an SL63 S E Performance variant with an impressive 805 hp—more than enough to overshadow this car's numerous design flaws.
Fortunately, only a limited number of these coachbuilt cars will ever see the road. Saoutchik plans to produce just 15 examples of the 300GTC. Although the company has not disclosed the price, it's safe to assume each will command a hefty sum. As they say, money can't buy taste.
