Description
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PRINCIPLE FACTS
Simply superb example of one of the lowest produced R107 models (just 2148 built) in arguably the best colour, Almandine Red Metallic. This 420 has been a UK car for almost its entire life, but enjoyed a brief spell (fewer than three years) in the channel island micro climate of Guernsey, returning to the UK in 2022.
A remarkable example with one of the most complete histories you could wish for, this car's just come out of a £16k bodywork and chassis refresh, ready to be enjoyed right away. The latter is guaranteed by that big 218bhp V8 up front and a limited-slip differential and Bilstein suspension underneath.
OVERVIEW & EQUIPMENT
Few options were left unticked by this SL's first owner, as he granted the car just about everything you could wish for. There's cruise control, leather heated seats and an outside temperature readout in the dash. An airbag for the driver was also specified but more exciting is the aforementioned locking differential out back.
The car's recent bodywork spruce up has been blended to perfection, the exterior of this classically beautiful SL looks thoroughly splendid. Mirror-like flanks invite even the closest of scrutineers. The cabin is just as good, its beige leather showing only the mildest patina on the driver's bolster. It's also nice to see the original premium audio still installed; Blaupunkt Cambridge in this instance.
The current owner has installed a very discreet reverse camera, which feeds to a removable Garmin Navigation device.
CONDITION SYNOPSIS
There's an awful lot to recommend with this 420. It's seen paintwork recently, but the work, carried out by independent Mercedes-Benz specialist John Haynes, is top drawer. Equally, the car's chromework gleams like new.
There's precious little to trouble the next owner underneath, as the chassis has been gone through too, with new Bilstein B4 dampers providing sharper handling, yet still allowing for a supple and comfortable ride. We did notice a near-new exhaust back box fitted, while the rest of the system shows a few signs of age.
The sumptuous leather-clad cabin is a dry and inviting place with wood and plastic elements all in superb shape. The door cards and carpets all look in excellent order, the only mild sign of wear we found was to the left-hand pivot on the driver's sun visor; which has since been addressed.
HISTORY FILE
The stack of paperwork to accompany this SL takes several hours to fully digest. There's a stamped service book showing care from new to 2020, with only a small gap from the mid-1990s to early 2000s. This period is covered by all prior MOTs and a number of tax discs showing consistent use. Invoiced evidence of care ramps up once again from 2002, where we see another independent Mercedes-Benz specialist, Keys Bexleyheath, fastidiously service and maintain the car.
With thousands of pounds spent here, up to 2018, this 420SL went off to its channel island paradise where, under its new custodian, it was sent to John Haynes for the aforementioned £16k refresh.
Returning to the UK in 2022, the car passed through the hands of well-known classic dealer Keith Ridlington of Classic Mobilia, who ensured all the import paperwork was carried out correctly, before the car came to us in its current and exceptional condition for some final 'finesse' in the form of replacement door seals and corrosion treatment to the OSF chassis leg.
SLSHOP SUMMARY
SLs in Almandine Red are always desirable, but ones with this combination of desirable options, extensive history (including recent large expenditure) and presenting in this condition, reside in another strata altogether. Once seen and driven, you'll be smitten.
