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Mercedes 300 SL

Mileage: 94,700 Top Speed: 123 Year: 1989 0 - 60: 9.4 MOT Expiry: May 14 BHP: 185 Tax Expiry: Oct 13 Transmission: 4 speed automatic Exterior Colour: Signal red Engine Capacity: 2962cc Interior Colour: Cream MB-Tex Engine Configuration: Inline 6

Mercedes 300 SL | £17,995

Mileage: 94,700

Model History

The R107 chassis replaced the now highly sought after W113 SL chassis or 'pagoda' in 1972. The R107 was produced in two variants the SL and SLC, the SL being a 2 seater convertible roadster with a soft top and removable hard top.

The SLs defined personal luxury cars for almost 2 decades (1971-1989) and were powered by eight different engines in that time.

 

At the Geneva Motor Show in March 1980, an uprated version of the 107 series roadster and coupe was presented; the equipment of the interior including the steering wheel had been brought up to the standard of the S-Class sedans and the same happened with the technology. The former 3-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a 4-speed version and the light-alloy engines of the S-Class were built into the 107 series models in slightly modified form. With this update to the 107 model the new Type 500 SL was released with its 5.0-liter V8-engine, which had been carried over from the 450 SLC and replaced the 450 SL. There were hardly any external differences to the predecessor; all three SL types now had an aluminium bonnet and the 500 SL also had an aluminium boot lid with a black plastic rear spoiler.

Built at a time when engineers ruled at Mercedes rather than the accountants the R107 chassis was built to a standard rather than a price. It was built for 18 years for a very good reason and one that will become more and more appreciated as time goes on.

Equipment

Alarm/Immobiliser, Factory hardtop, Electric windows, Power steering, CD player, Central locking, Anti-lock brakes, rear seat belts, Electric mirror, First aid kit, Fire extinguisher, tool kit, Spare wheel.

Exterior

The red paintwork on this 300SL truly defies its age with no fading or blemishes to any of the panels and still displaying a beautifully clear shine, it remains in superb condition. Used sparingly in dry weather only and garaged when not in use, the body work has avoided any of the usual corrosion issues. The underside of the car is also in fine order, no road dirt has been allowed to build up, leaving it free from any surface corrosion. All the chrome work is in excellent condition with no pitting to the usual areas. Due to its careful indoor storage, all of the plastic and rubber seals remain in fine fettle with no signs of fading or drying out.

Interior

The interior space of the SL is awash with beautiful cream MB-Tex material, contrasting wonderfully against the hue of the red paintwork. Both front and rear seats are in excellent order, the material remains very clean and soft to the touch with minimal wear to be found. The cream theme continues along the door panels and across the lower half of the dashboard, these areas also remain in fine fettle with no scuffs or unsightly marks. The centre console walnut trim is unmarked with no cracks to the lacquer, it provides a welcome contrast to predominantly light interior scheme. All of the switchgear throughout the car still feels solid to operate, showing very little wear and working perfectly.

 

In the foot wells the cream carpets are protected by the correct Mercedes over mats that all remain in excellent condition, as does the carpet throughout the car.

Engine & Transmission

The SL boasts an excellent service record, leafing through the service booklet it is obvious that this example has always been well maintained. Lifting the bonnet, you are presented with a wonderfully clean engine bay, this condition is testament to the cars careful dry weather usage.

 

The 3 litre Mercedes engine and 4 speed automatic gearbox both feel tight and responsive, pulling through the gears with ease and providing wonderfully smooth performance.

Wheels, Tyres & Brakes

This example still sits on its original 15" Mercedes alloy wheels, all of which are in excellent condition and free from any kerb marks, scuffs or lacquer damage. They are shod in a matching set of Dunlop SP Sport tyres which all have a good amount of tread remaining.

 

Having recently had the brake system stripped down, all components checked and the brake fluid replaced, the braking system is working perfectly, providing strong performance and pulling the car up quickly in a straight line.

History File

This 300SL was first registered in August 1989 and sold by its supplying dealer Lancaster Europa Ltd, it then had its running-in inspection 3 months later at 854 miles by the supplying dealer.

 

The correct maintenance schedule has been kept over the years with 17 stamps in the original service booklet by Mercedes main dealers and specialists, the last inspection was carried out by a specialist at 93,528 miles.

 

This example comes with an impressive history file, a binder full of old invoices dating back to the early 90s, many MOT certificates and tax discs as well as some old magazine articles and Mercedes manuals. It is apparent from condition, history and paperwork kept, this is a cherished example.