1983 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (R107)
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Highlights
• Excellent condition
• Performs brilliantly
• An iconic Mercedes sports car
• Restored example
• Extensive history
• Well cared for
The Appeal
Produced alongside the C107 platform, the R107 SL was the well-received successor to the W113 series and signalled a turning point for the brand. With the introduction of muscular body lines with fewer rounded edges, Mercedes’ flagship convertibles were now beginning to shift toward the more angular designs that would follow.
As is the case with many classics, clean examples of the R107 280SL are now few and far between, with many having fallen to corrosion and age. This example, however, benefits from previous restoration work, extensive maintenance, and now presents itself beautifully here today.
The History and Paperwork
• Just 96k covered
• Only 5 former keepers
• Owned by the same family for the last 26 years
• Well-cared and treasured by keepers
• Fantastic maintenance record & history
• Garage stored
This 280SL has covered a mere 96k since first registered in 1983, passing through just 5 former keepers over the years. As reflected by previous paperwork and tax discs, the car is believed to have spent its earlier years around Surrey and London, perhaps enjoying the sights of the capital.
For the last 26 years, the vehicle has been treasured by father and son, receiving a tremendous level of care along the way. Throughout their ownership, the vehicle has been dry stored in the garage, only venturing outside on sunny, salt-free days. As a result of this, the car has been well preserved in the stunning condition presented to buyers today.
The vehicle also benefits from a brilliant collection of paperwork and showcases a care-filled history. The paperwork includes full independent service history, along with a great number of invoices detailing previous parts & labour. Most notable perhaps, are recent invoices for the engine rebuild in 1995 and the new soft top in 2011.
Also included are numerous previous MOT certificates, previous tax discs and the V5C documentation. Should you wish to view some of the progress with the car’s previous restoration, there is also a collection of photographs detailing the process.
This car has been treasured by the current keepers, and now awaits a new home where it will hopefully receive the same amount of care and affection. Whether the car’s destiny is to be part of a collection, or simply a summer toy, it certainly won’t disappoint.
The Interior
• Retrimmed cream interior
• Excellent condition
• Includes both the rare hardtop and folding soft top
• Classy wood trim
• Radio/cassette player
The interior of this stunning 280SL is in excellent condition and contrasts beautifully against the Signal Red exterior. Originally finished in black plastic, the interior now sports a re-trimmed cream leather interior that suits the stylish convertible far better.
Both front seats are in great condition, other than only a few minor signs of wear, which are mainly noticeable towards the driver’s side bolster. The rear seats, on the other hand, appear to have hardly been used over the years and show very few signs of age.
Carpets and leather trim pieces throughout the vehicle are clean & free from damage, as are the matching door cards. The dashboard, wooden trim, steering wheel, and controls follow closely, presenting themselves in a manner befitting the car’s overall finish. All controls and instruments throughout the cabin are also believed to be in full working order and reflect minimal use.
The interior quality extends all the way to the boot, which shows off its clean carpeting with pride, and plays host to the spare wheel. Behind a sneaky compartment on the driver’s side, you’ll also find a warning triangle, toolkit, and the jack.
If you’re looking for a comfortable space to enjoy the 280SL’s performance and top-down weather, this interior is more than suited to the tasks at hand.
The Exterior
• Signal Red paintwork
• Removable hardtop roof
• New soft top
• Excellent condition
• Iconic Mercedes body lines
• Garage stored & protected from the elements
This 280SL is a truly beautiful car and embodies everything we love about this generation of Mercedes vehicles. Finished in Signal Red paintwork, the car presents itself very well, with only a few minor blemishes noticeable upon close inspection. Having been treated to various bodywork as part of the previous restoration, this Mercedes certainly shows very few signs of age and receives admiration wherever it ventures.
In keeping with the rest of the exterior, all 4 wheels are in excellent condition, with no particularly noticeable defects. The wheels are also wrapped in a matching set of Pirelli tyres, with plenty of tread for the lucky new owner to enjoy.
Being the R107 model, this car does also sport the desirable hardtop, in addition to the folding soft top that hides beneath. Both roofs are in excellent condition with no leaks or issues, presenting drivers with the choice to enjoy either top-down weather or the styling of the classy hardtop.
Overall, this 280SL can hardly be faulted for the manner in which it presents itself after all these years. It is in superb condition, has clearly been well cared for, and is finished in arguably the greatest colour for the classy convertible.
The Mechanics
• 2746cc inline-six
• Rebuilt engine
• Drives brilliantly
• 4 new Pirelli tyres
• Brake overhaul in 2021
• Meticulously cared for and expertly maintained
Buyers will be pleased to know that this stunning 280 SL starts up right away, and drives superbly. The 2.8L engine pulls well throughout the gears and delivers a signature straight-six roar under load. The engine did in fact receive a new bottom-end in 1995 and has since covered no more than 20k miles.
Meticulously maintained over the years, the car benefits from regular servicing and key maintenance where required. In 2021 for instance, the car was treated to a full brake overhaul, as well as a new set of Pirelli tyres.
With no mechanical or electrical issues to name, this Mercedes will certainly provide the new owner with countless hours of fun out on the sunny roads.
Summary
This beautiful Mercedes 280 SL is a vehicle that deserves your utmost attention. The car is in superb condition, has been treasured by current & previous owners, and requires absolutely nothing to be enjoyed. Finished in Signal Red with a re-trimmed cream leather interior, this Benz is one of the finest examples on the global market.
If you’re looking for the next summer toy, or seek a fantastic example for your collection, look no further than this gorgeous R107 280 SL.
If you’re looking for the next summer toy, or seek a fantastic example for your collection, look no further than this gorgeous R107 280 SL.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1983
- Make Mercedes
- Model 280SL (R107)
- Colour Red
- Odometer 96,098 Miles
- Engine size 2746
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Knutsford
- Location Cheshire
- Country United Kingdom
37
bids
- p-•••• £23,250 20/06/22
- cr•••• £23,000 20/06/22
- p-•••• £22,750 20/06/22
- cr•••• £22,500 20/06/22
- p-•••• £22,250 20/06/22
- cr•••• £22,000 20/06/22
- p-•••• £21,750 20/06/22
- cr•••• £21,500 20/06/22
- p-•••• £21,000 20/06/22
- cr•••• £20,750 20/06/22
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