1982 Mercedes-Benz 280SL (R107)
Highlights
- Verified low mileage at just 42,300 miles
- Just one previous owner from new
- Factory hardtop included
- Superb specification
The Appeal
The R107 is the classic Mercedes SL. Beautifully engineered with a range of charismatic drivetrains, they make for excellent everyday classics as well as potentially being an appreciating asset.
This particular example has been meticulously maintained and kept in lovely condition. With its classy blue-on-blue specification and optional factory hardtop, it makes for an elegant and deeply practical usable classic.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 5 February 1982
- One previous owner from new
- 12 months MOT
- Just 42,324 miles, verified by service record
- Good service history (8 stamps up to 2012)
- Car was barely used from 2003 to 2012 (covering just 3,000 miles)
- Last stamped service was in 2012 at 40,186 miles
- Original handbooks included
- Some invoices for servicing and maintenance
- Currently registered on the Isle Of Man
- Located in Surrey but not yet registered on mainland UK
- Upon registration, it will be given an age related 1982 X-suffix registration
- Please note: the car can be insured and driven on the road with the IOM registration until the winning bidder receives the new registration from the DVLA
The Interior
- MB-Tex leatherette upholstery
- Zebrano wood detailing
- Electric front windows
- Period Blaupunkt radio/cassette
For a 40 year old car, the interior of this SL presents in exceptional condition. The blue MB-Tex upholstery of the seats, dash and door cards presents in very good condition, with only light signs of wear and no evidence of tears or damage we could observe.
The carpets are in similarly good order, complementing the upholstery perfectly and appearing in excellent condition throughout the car - in the boot as well as the main cabin area. That cavernous boot is accompanied by a good sized luggage shelf behind the seats, ensuring the SL offers all the room you could desire from a grand tourer.
Looking at the rest of the internal trim, it’s impressively well preserved. The lovely Zebrano wood veneer presents well, with no signs of cracking, chipping or warping. Likewise all of the driving controls and switchgear are intact, clean, legible and showing minimal signs of wear. It’s clear from the condition of the interior that this car has been cherished and properly cared for.
The Exterior
- Arctic Blue Metallic paintwork
- Matching blue fabric roof
- Factory optional removable hardtop with stand
- Original 14” alloy wheels
With its shimmering Arctic Blue Metallic paintwork and contrasting brightwork, this R107 SL certainly cuts a very fine figure. It’s already a handsomely proportioned vehicle, and when presented in this colour scheme and this kind of condition, it really is something quite special.
The bodywork and paint are in very good condition, with no signs of damage or corrosion. There are some minor blemishes, as you’d expect from a 40 year old vehicle, but nothing that’s worthy of note. Both of the roofs are in excellent condition, with the blue fabric of the convertible roof appearing to be in almost-new condition. The vendor believes the fabric roof has barely been used, and the condition certainly backs this up. Naturally, the hardtop is in similarly fine condition, with no notable wear or blemishes. It also comes with a padded stand, to make storage much easier.
Looking at the brightwork, badging and lights, everything is complete and looks to be in fine fettle. The chrome has a deep shine and looks to be wearing minimal amounts of wear. Very much the same is true of the wheels - they’re the original 14” ‘Mexican Hat’ design and are present in excellent condition, with a matching set of nearly new Firestone tyres.
The Mechanics
- 2,746cc inline-six
- Automatic transmission
Renowned for its engineering prowess, the R107 came with a wide variety of drivetrains, but they were all excellent. This car features the classic 2.8-litre straight-six, with its characteristic burbling exhaust note. It’s a reliable and proven engine that offers plenty of power and has nice responses. Twinned here with the automatic gearbox, it makes for a relaxing but capable machine.
As the car has been tucked away for a number of years and only recently recommissioned for road use, the battery, spark plugs and HT leads have all been replaced. As a result, the owner tells us that the car drives very well indeed, with no mechanical issues to report.
With a full MOT, low mileage and good service history, buyers can have confidence that this car has the mechanical prowess to back up its wonderful styling.
Summary
With a classically German blue-over-blue colour scheme, a sonorous straight-six powerplant, recent recommissioning and a full MOT, we think that this SL is one of those classics you can buy with your heart and your head.
It’s presented beautifully too, having been kept in the kind of condition that few vehicles are privy to. We think this is a great opportunity to acquire a popular classic that’s been very well preserved.
Notice to bidders
All items in this listing are sold on an “As Is - Where Is” basis. Photos and listing descriptions should be used as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information in this listing and Car & Classic performs a level of due diligence prior to the auction, we do not warrant the accuracy of the listings. The seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Inspection is highly recommended prior to bidding. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
Please take care when making a bid as once your bid is placed, it cannot be withdrawn and will not be cancelled. If you are unsure do not bid as no refunds will be given.
A nonrefundable buyer deposit is applied to all items won at auction. Please see our FAQs and T&Cs for further details.
All bidding is subject to our T&Cs. By registering and bidding you agree to the terms. Please ensure you clearly read them alongside the special terms and conditions contained in this listing.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1982
- Make Mercedes
- Model 280SL Auto
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 42,326 Miles
- Engine size 2746
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Location London
- Country United Kingdom
55
bids
- Mi•••• £26,750 20/09/22
- An•••• £26,500 20/09/22
- An•••• £26,250 20/09/22
- Mi•••• £26,000 20/09/22
- An•••• £25,750 20/09/22
- da•••• £25,500 20/09/22
- Mi•••• £25,250 20/09/22
- jo•••• £25,000 20/09/22
- De•••• £24,750 20/09/22
- ma•••• £24,500 20/09/22
The Gallery
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