Highlights

Subject to circa £6000 mechanical refresh and engine overhaul in 2022
Backed by extensive history file
Smartly presented throughout in desirable specification
Sought after 280SL variant
Tax and MOT exempt

The Appeal

Hailing from the golden era of Mercedes Benz, the R107 generation SL really personifies what made the marque so great during the 1970s and 80s. Timeless, elegant styling, robust drivelines and of course untold levels of engineering quality. The SL fell perfectly for buyers looking for an effortlessly classy luxury sports convertible that lacked the brash, imposing aura that came with many of its market competitors. Something achieved throughout the several generations of the model right up to present day, but none quite like the R107.

This 1982 R107 is a splendid and rather interesting example of the coveted model. A desirable 280SL in a classic, timeless specification, it displays in brilliant form inside and out, and boasting a thorough mechanical refresh and engine overhaul is in fine mechanical fettle as well. Certainly for the keen Mercedes enthusiast an R107 like this takes some beating and should be a serious contender to become the new addition to any driveway or prestigious collection.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 04/11/1982
Supplied new via Mercedes distributor Europa Cars LTD of Sheffield
Current owner since 1993
Accompanied by Mercedes Benz book pack with various manuals and service book present with extensive collection of servicing stamps
Large collection of invoices are with the car detailing maintenance work, including one in the region of £6000 for a 2022 mechanical refresh and engine overhaul
Both tax and MOT exempt due to the vehicle’s age and historic status
Despite MOT exemption the car has a current MOT valid until February 2025
Comes with a collection of Mercedes service manuals diagrams and information booklets
V5 registration document is also to hand

The Condition

Excellently presented example throughout, boasting good, highly original bodywork and interior
Finished from the factory in Signal Red
The paintwork stands today in great form, notably lacking in signs of blemishing or age related marking, with a good shine still visible
External chrome trim is in good form, as is the surrounding badging, lighting and glass work
Characteristic removable hard top roof is clean and in great working order, unlatching using the accompanying Mercedes tool with ease
High quality 14” silver Mercedes Benz alloys reside at all four corners with a fifth full size spare in the boot
Quality cream upholstery used throughout, very well aged with a distinct lack of wear or signs of excessive use on the seating, dash or door panels
Fitted with optional rear seating
Interior trim, fascias and fittings are in impressively good order
Becker Europa radio head unit
Plush carpeting used throughout the cabin and within the well sized boot area

The Mechanics

Fitted with a highly revered 2.8 litre Mercedes six cylinder engine
Paired with a wonderfully smooth automatic transmission
In 2022 the engine was subject to an extensive overhaul and rebuild costing around £6000
The car currently stands in great mechanical order, firing into life with ease and providing a great overall, characteristically smooth driving experience
MOT valid until February 2025

Summary

Seen by many as one of the most important models in Mercedes history, the R107 really is a great car. Confidently ticking all the boxes one looks for in a classic roadster, the beautifully styled, endlessly reliable machine has behind it a dedicated following of enthusiasts and parts supply both from aftermarket and Mercedes themselves, and for good reason.

Demand for these cars is on a seemingly endless upward surge, with hordes of people looking for a stylish, usable and attainable classic car and quickly realising the R107 is just about one of the best candidates for the job. A well presented, excellent specification example, this dashing red 280SL leaves very little not to like.