The Alloy-bodied Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing was a limited production variant of the W198 Mercedes-Benz 300SL that was introduced in 1954. The 300SL Alloy featured the same styling as featured in the standard 300SL Gullwing, but built in a lightweight aluminum alloy that saved 176lbs. These cars were powered by Mercedes' M198 engine, which was a 3.0L inline six unit that was available in two versions. The standard unit generated 215hp, while a high compression version that generated 240hp was offered as a no cost option. Both engines were paired to a 4 speed manual transmission that sent drive to the rear wheels. Production of the Alloy-bodied 300SL Gullwing ended in 1957 with just 29 examples built, making them the most desirable variant of an already special car.