So Im wondering how long I can keep the body of the 190D from rusting to dust when I spot this:

https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/40327601_1955-mercedes-benz-300-slr-roadster-kit-car

And Im wondering if my 602 turbo and rebuilt transmissin would fit. So we take a run up to see it. My conclusion is that its a nice project for someone, not me. Its literally a barn find, probably hasnt seen sunshine in ten years. At this point, it would be a frame off rebuild to clean it up and get it right. Too bad.

So this is a kit car, not an actual Mercedes, with a Ford engine?

Yes. Probably by Thoroughbred Coachbuilders. Pretty well made for what it is.

Great looking car. I would easily pay $1k for it as is. Wonder what it will finally go for?

I think the auction company's estimate is reasonable. The car needs a lot of work. It does make a pretty picture though.

It closed at an incredible $31,000, plus 18% buyer premium, plus 7 3/8% nys tax. Thats crazy money for what will be a frame off restoration project. When its done, it may be worth 70k, but they would be lucky to break even. The power of the internet and the danger of sight unseen buying.

Unbelievable.