Description
1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL (R107) – 5. 6 V8 Automatic
Finished in Blue Black Metallic (199) with Grey Leather (278)
Just 69, 771 Miles Indicated
European-Style Bumpers & Headlights
California History
First UK Registered June 2026
A Beautiful Example of the Flagship Mercedes-Benz R107 SL
Speedsters are delighted to offer this exceptionally attractive 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL, presented in its sophisticated factory colour combination of Blue Black Metallic (199) with Grey leather upholstery (278).
Powered by the formidable 5. 6-litre V8 engine, the 560 SL represents the ultimate development of the legendary R107 generation and was the most powerful production variant of this much-loved Mercedes-Benz roadster.
Unlike the smaller-engined R107 models officially available in Britain, the 560 SL was produced primarily for the North American, Japanese and Australian markets and was never officially offered through Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the United Kingdom.
Consequently, genuine 560 SL examples remain comparatively uncommon on British roads.
This particular car benefits from European-style front and rear bumpers and headlights, giving it the cleaner, more elegant appearance of European-market R107s, while retaining the exceptional 5. 6-litre V8 powertrain.
Recently registered in the United Kingdom in June 2026, it combines classic Mercedes-Benz styling, an attractive factory colour scheme and an interesting American history.
Vehicle Details
Registration:D930 JHYModel:Mercedes-Benz 560 SL (R107)Year of manufacture:1987Original registration:January 1987First UK registration:June 2026Chassis/ VIN:WDBBA48D7HA074671Engine:5, 547cc naturally aspirated V8Transmission:Four-speed automaticDrive:Left-hand driveFactory paint:199 Blue Black MetallicFactory upholstery:278 Grey leatherRecorded mileage:69, 771 miles indicatedPreviously registered:United States of AmericaRoof configuration:Removable hardtop and folding soft topWheels:Original-style Mercedes-Benz alloy wheels
Desirable Factory Colour Combination
One of the most appealing characteristics of this 560 SL is its beautiful Blue Black Metallic paintwork, Mercedes-Benz factory colour code 199.
Not to be confused with ordinary solid black, this sophisticated metallic finish possesses a subtle blue-grey tone which becomes particularly noticeable in natural sunlight.
Depending upon the lighting conditions, the colour can appear almost black, dark charcoal or metallic blue-grey.
It was one of the most elegant Mercedes-Benz finishes available during the 1980s and perfectly suits the distinctive angular lines of the late-production R107.
The exterior is complemented by its factory-specified Grey leather interior, code 278, providing an attractive and understated contrast to the darker bodywork.
The combination creates a wonderfully authentic period appearance, perfectly reflecting the quality and restrained elegance for which Mercedes-Benz was renowned.
European-Style Exterior Conversion
A particularly attractive feature of this example is its European-style exterior presentation.
The 560 SL was predominantly manufactured for markets requiring different lighting and bumper arrangements, most notably North America, where larger impact-absorbing bumpers and distinctive headlight assemblies were fitted to satisfy contemporary regulations.
This example now features the considerably more elegant European-style bumper and headlight arrangement.
The slimmer chrome bumpers sit much closer to the coachwork, visually restoring the proportions originally intended for the European R107.
The European-style headlamp units also give the front of the car a much cleaner and more cohesive appearance.
For many collectors and enthusiasts, these exterior features are particularly desirable, combining the classic appearance of a European-market SL with the more powerful 5. 6-litre engine of the 560 SL.
The car also retains its distinctive Mercedes-Benz radiator grille, chrome exterior detailing, original-style alloy wheels and characteristic long bonnet.
Previous Californian History
This car was previously offered for sale by the established American classic car specialist SportsCar LA, based in Los Angeles, California.
The earlier sales documentation identifies the vehicle by its matching chassis number, WDBBA48D7HA074671, confirming the connection with this particular example.
At that time, the American dealer described it as a one-owner vehicle with approximately 69, 800 miles recorded, which had been garaged and maintained throughout its life.
The dealer also reported numerous service records, a clean California title and a clean CARFAX vehicle history report.
Its accompanying hardtop was described as being in very good condition, while the factory soft top was described as excellent.
The interior, dashboard, woodwork and paintwork were also highly praised in the earlier sales description.
These statements reflect the previous American dealer’s observations and provide useful supporting provenance. The original documentation and present condition can be reviewed during a viewing.
Following its American history, the car was subsequently imported into the United Kingdom, where it was first registered with the DVLA in June 2026.
It now carries the age-related UK registration D930 JHY.
The Magnificent 5. 6-Litre V8 Engine
Under the long bonnet lies the legendary Mercedes-Benz M117 V8 engine.
With a capacity of 5, 547cc, this sophisticated naturally aspirated eight-cylinder powerplant was the largest engine offered in the R107 range.
Developing approximately 227 bhp in North American specification, the 560 SL delivered effortless performance combined with the smoothness and refinement traditionally associated with Mercedes-Benz grand touring cars.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic gearbox, providing relaxed cruising, strong acceleration and an unmistakably refined driving experience.
The 560 SL was designed to cover considerable distances in comfort, particularly on the long highways of North America, where its combination of abundant torque, smooth automatic transmission and exceptional build quality made it a highly desirable luxury sports car.
Even today, its performance remains more than adequate for modern road use, while the character and sound of the naturally aspirated V8 contribute enormously to the ownership experience.
Unlike many contemporary sports cars, the 560 SL was conceived as a luxurious grand tourer, effortlessly combining performance with refinement.
A Well-Appointed Luxury Interior
Inside, the attractive Grey leather upholstery is complemented by traditional Mercedes-Benz wood veneer, elegant instrumentation and substantial, beautifully engineered controls.
The R107 interior represents a particularly appealing era of Mercedes-Benz construction, when material quality, durability and ergonomic design were of paramount importance.
This example’s factory equipment specification includes a driver’s airbag, automatic climate control, anti-theft system and provision for a Becker Grand Prix electronic radio.
Its original equipment coding also records US-market specification and the 1987 model year.
The interior features supportive leather seating, substantial door trim, an elegantly styled dashboard and the characteristic combination of analogue instrumentation and wood veneer.
The previous American dealer specifically praised the condition of the dashboard, woodwork and leather interior.
The result is an exceptionally inviting cabin, equally suited to leisurely summer drives or more ambitious grand touring journeys.
Convertible Motoring with Hardtop Versatility
One of the enduring attractions of the R107 is its exceptional versatility.
The removable hardtop transforms the 560 SL into an elegant fixed-roof grand tourer, providing additional weather protection and a particularly refined appearance during the colder months.
With the hardtop removed, the folding fabric soft top provides traditional convertible practicality.
And when the weather permits, the roof can be lowered completely, revealing the beautiful open-top proportions that have made the Mercedes-Benz SL an automotive icon.
The previous American sales description specifically referred to both the removable hardtop and factory soft top, describing their condition favourably.
This versatility is a significant reason why the R107 remains such an enjoyable and usable classic Mercedes-Benz.
The Final and Most Developed R107
The R107 SL was introduced in 1971 and continued in production until 1989, making it one of the longest-running Mercedes-Benz passenger-car designs.
Throughout its production life, the model underwent numerous technical and mechanical improvements, culminating in the extensively updated final-generation cars introduced for the 1986 model year.
The 560 SL benefited from the accumulated development of the R107 platform, with improved suspension, braking equipment, safety features and mechanical refinement.
Its 5. 6-litre V8 made it the flagship of the range.
In contrast to the 300 SL, 420 SL and 500 SL versions more commonly associated with the European market, the 560 SL was principally intended for overseas customers.
This makes it a particularly appealing choice for British enthusiasts seeking an R107 with the largest factory engine.
The model also represented the final chapter of the classic R107 before the arrival of the completely redesigned R129 SL in 1989.
An Appealing Addition to Any Mercedes-Benz Collection
Today, the Mercedes-Benz R107 is firmly established as one of the most desirable modern classic luxury roadsters.
Its combination of timeless styling, exceptionally robust construction, sophisticated engineering and everyday usability continues to attract enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
The later 560 SL is particularly interesting because it combines the largest engine with the benefits of the final-generation R107 development programme.
This particular example offers an especially attractive proposition thanks to its original Blue Black Metallic and Grey leather colour combination, previously documented Californian history, relatively modest indicated mileage and elegant European-style exterior presentation.
With its UK registration now established, it offers the opportunity to enjoy a genuine 5. 6-litre V8 Mercedes-Benz roadster without the complication of undertaking an initial UK registration.
Whether enjoyed as an occasional summer classic, a comfortable touring car or as part of a wider collection, the 560 SL remains an exceptionally rewarding Mercedes-Benz to own.
Pristine condition, walk around video available on request.
1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL
Registration: D930 JHY
Chassis: WDBBA48D7HA074671
69, 771 Miles Indicated
An attractive example of the flagship R107 roadster, combining exceptional V8 refinement, understated Mercedes-Benz styling and the elegance of European-style exterior detailing.
Further information, additional photographs and viewings are available by appointment.
Serious enquiries are warmly welcomed.
