A modern tribute to the iconic Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, this custom build blends retro styling with 21st-century performance—now on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum


FORT WORTH, TX, September 17, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- An unmistakable silhouette with a modern heart, the 2004 Mercedes SLK320 "300SL Gullwing Tribute" is now showcased at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, captivating guests with its blend of timeless design and contemporary engineering. Part of the renowned Ron Sturgeon Collection, this unique build pays homage to one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history—the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing.

Sharing its 2,400mm wheelbase with the original 300SL, the SLK320 underpinnings have been skillfully transformed to evoke the classic proportions and spirit of the legendary 1950s supercar. Signature upward-opening doors, complete with fixed windows, wheel-arch eyebrows, dual hood bulges, fender louvers with bright spears, pivot-out door handles, simulated roof vents, and chrome bumpers, deliver an unmistakable vintage aesthetic with a bespoke touch.

Power comes from a 3.2-liter M112 V6, a modern Mercedes power plant featuring sequential fuel injection, twin-plug ignition, and SOHC aluminum construction, factory-rated at 215 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. A 5G-Tronic five-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels, delivering smooth, capable performance behind the wheel.

The chassis retains the R170 SLK's reliable dynamics, including servo-assisted ventilated disc brakes, power steering, independent front suspension, and a multi-link rear setup for modern drivability.

Inside, the cockpit bridges past and present with beige loop carpeting, faux sill vents, a dash-mounted rear view mirror, and air conditioning routed through defroster and footwell vents. A body-color dashboard fascia houses VDO gauges, including a 160-mph speedometer, 7,000-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary readouts, while an ivory-colored tilt steering wheel eases entry and exit—just like the original Gullwing.

From its dramatic gullwing doors to its retro styling cues and modern comfort, this tribute car offers a unique take on Mercedes-Benz history—merging mid-century magic with 21st-century performance.

Now proudly on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, the SLK320 300SL Tribute offers a stunning visual and visceral experience for both classic car enthusiasts and modern collectors alike.

About Ron Sturgeon
The visionary behind DFW Car & Toy Museum has been a dedicated car collector for over 30 years. His passion for automobiles began in his teenage years when he taught himself to repair Volkswagens, eventually leading to a successful career in the automotive industry. From building one of the largest auto salvage operations in the country to restoring and collecting classic and exotic cars, Ron's love for all things automotive has never wavered.

About DFW Car & Toy Museum
DFW Car and Toy Museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s collecting automobile toys and cars. Until recently, it was in Haltom City, TX, and its website DFW Elite Toy Museum is still the go-to source for toy and car lovers worldwide. The museum is now located in North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137. (at Meacham and I35w) The new facility is 150,000 square feet with free parking & admission. It promises an entertaining visit. They offer secure climate-controlled car storage and facilities for events, including car clubs, board meetings etc. The museum is also dog friendly and encourages pictures. Hours of operation are Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 am- 6:00 pm, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected]



For the original version on 24-7 Press Release Newswire visit: