Description
SOLD - SIMILAR CARS WANTED
Do you own an interesting or rare modern classic?
We’re actively seeking low-mileage, high-quality modern and modern classic cars - particularly those with rare specifications, strong provenance, and excellent service history.
If you're thinking of selling, we offer a straightforward and discreet alternative to the private market - with the option to sell your car outright or explore our consignment route, depending on what suits you best.
Whether it’s a limited-run performance car, an interesting future classic, or something a little different - we’d love to hear from you.
-----
A Rare and Beautifully Preserved 420 SL – One of the Finest Examples of the R107 Era
Supplied new on the 1st of March 1989 by Swinford Motors of Stourbridge, this 420 SL represents one of the final and rarest chapters in Mercedes-Benz’s long-running R107 SL series - a model line renowned for its elegance, integrity, and enduring charm. With just 2, 148 examples of the 420 SL produced worldwide, and approximately 600 thought to remain in the UK, it's rarer than both the 500SL and 300SL by some margin.
Finished in Signal Red (DB568) with Cream Leather (275), its colour combination is among the most sought-after for the model - a timeless pairing that perfectly complements the R107's classical lines. The removable hardtop is body-coloured, while the soft-top black - both remain in beautiful condition; indicative of its previous owners dedication to preservation. Factory options include cruise control, wood veneer trim, Blaupunkt radio and rear seats – desirable refinements that round off an already elegant package.
Now 35 years old, this example has covered just 38, 000 miles from new, supported by a wonderful backstory of long-term, fastidious ownership. Just four former keepers have cared for the car, the most recent having acquired it in July 2010 to join a carefully curated collection of modern classics. During his 14-year stewardship, this SL has been kept garaged and cosseted more as a collector’s piece than daily transport. The matching hardtop has always been stored properly on its stand - just as you see it photographed today.
Along with a plethora of invoices, we have its original maintenance booklet, which shows the first 6 visits to the supplying dealer. Most recently, servicing and maintenance have been entrusted to respected marque specialist, SS Motors of Weybridge, ensuring it remains in fine mechanical health.
In line with its low mileage and careful use, the condition throughout is exceptional. The exterior chrome and plastic trims retain a deep lustre, the paintwork shows no signs of poor repairs or corrosion, and the 15-hole alloy wheels are unmarked, wearing matching Continental tyres with plenty of tread. Inside, the cabin exudes originality — the leather seats are supple and well-kept, the wood trim rich and glossy, and all gauges and switchgear are crisp, clear and free from any signs of age or fatigue.
On the road, the car starts on the button and settles into a smooth idle with that distinctive V8 burble unique to the M116 engine. In character, the 420 SL is wonderfully balanced - offering more refinement and maturity than the 500SL, yet retaining the unmistakable charm and presence of a V8. It provides effortless, composed performance that feels tailor-made for long-distance touring.
Small but thoughtful touches speak to the care it has received: a discreet isolator switch is fitted in the engine bay for ease of storage, and the bay itself still bears the original chassis stamp - a reassuring mark of authenticity.
From a collector’s point of view, the 420 SL occupies a particularly interesting niche. Not only is it the rarest of all R107 variants, but it also marked the final evolution of the beloved M116 engine, here enlarged to 4. 2 litres for its last outing. It captures a unique moment in Mercedes history - when craftsmanship, engineering, and design all reached a high point before the SL range transitioned into a more modern, digital age.
With its striking colourway, low mileage, careful provenance and exceptional condition, this 420 SL offers a rare opportunity to own one of the finest and most useable V8 SLs of its era. An ideal addition to any collection, and one that deserves to be seen to be fully appreciated.
FULL DEALERSHIP FACILITIES | VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT
