Mercedes SL models are well known through the world especially in Europe and the USA, as well equipped & comfortable sports cars.

The SL being a 2-seat convertible and the SLC a slightly elongated 2+2- or 4-seater coupe.

These 107 versions to give them the correct Mercedes code, were part of the Mercedes model line up from 1971 through to 1989, although the SLC variant was only available for 2 years, 1980 & 1981.

Offered with a number of engine options throughout their production run, the SLC model we have here is powered by a 3.8 litre V8.

First registered on the 1st of February 1981 by supplying dealers County Garage of Cheltenham, this SLC was delivered fresh off the production line to well-known comedian Jimmy Tarbuck who was living in Kingston on Thames at the time.

He fine tuned the car’s specification at the time by ordering the factory option metal electric sliding sunroof.

He drove the Mercedes for just over a year before we imagine, trading it in for a newer model.

Subsequently passing through 6 former owners’ hands, the 7th purchased it in 2010 & enjoyed ownership for the next 8 years, undertaking numerous works during his watch.

Purchased by the trade in 2018, this SLC is now available again for an enthusiast to enjoy.

There is a current V5c registration document & the car will have 12 months Mot at the time of delivery.

There is a substantial file containing various receipts for parts & works carried out over the years, particularly during previous ownership.

There is also a list of previous owners & copies of their registration details.

This SLC Mercedes really is a true four-seater coupe, yes, it’ll be a bit of a squeeze getting into the rear seats, but once in there appears to be plenty of seat depth and leg space for 2 adults in comfort in this sports car.

The interior is in good condition, with the seats finished in ‘80s velour with matching blue trimmed dash, door cards & carpets. There is wood inlaid to the dash, all in good condition and finishing the cabin off in style.

There are electrically powered windows all round and this car is fitted with cruise control.

There is a little wear to the driver’s seat base where it joins the backrest but other than just a little wear to the backrests of both seats, where a hand has been placed to move the seat forward allowing access to the rear.

Roof lining is good, no sagging and of course contains the electric sliding sunroof, which works as expected.

Silver paintwork over silver “Mexican Hat “ alloy wheels , finished off with a little chrome trim here and there and a touch of matt black give it a wow factor.

Generally, in good condition throughout, there is a little scratching to the chrome trim around the doors & side windows, and one or two spots of paintwork which could be improved if deemed necessary by a new owner.

Door rubbers are a little perished, but this is easily rectified.

Overall though, as you’ll see from the pictures, this appears to be a very sound car with little in the way of paintwork discrepancies.

Starting easily when moved for the photos, the engine sounds as smooth as silk at tickover and appeared to snick into drive and reverse with ease.

The previous owner spent over £10,000 during his ownership on works & parts to bring this Merc up to its current condition. 

These included welding to the jacking points before new sills, wings, painting, new brake pipes etc lots of bills for lots of parts.

Well, those sleek pillarless coupe looks, combined with legendary Mercedes build quality and reliability make this a good alternative choice to British classics for those enthusiasts in the know.

Understated luxury would be another description that comes to mind, an alpine trip this summer also comes to mind, and this would be a fabulous car to complement the trip.

Gstaad anyone ?