It’s no secret that the 300 SL is very much sought-after at the moment, with the model representing the sweet spot of R107s for a great many prospective buyers. This variant is equipped with the smooth 3.0-litre straight-six, offering up a handy 187bhp and 188lb.ft. This is a late-model car, with the 300 having replaced the 280 SL in the model line-up from 1985 onward; these later cars have galvanised bodies for improved longevity, while continuing the impeccable and effervescent style of their 1970s forebears. So we’re looking at an SL that’s solid, reliable, frugal, beautifully equipped, and super smooth. And this particular example is very desirable indeed, finished in the eminently pleasing combination of Mercedes blue black metallic coachwork and black-and-tan cabin. Tastefully presented and highly enjoyable to drive, we’re expecting interest in this car to be very keen indeed.

The 300 SL’s cabin is well appointed and presents in tidy overall condition. The dash-top has a couple of very minor cracks, as is common with R107s, but is generally tidy. The wood trim is in good order, and an aftermarket stereo has been fitted. (Its surround is absent, although there a couple of them in the glovebox.) The upholstery and carpets are neat, with the seats tilting correctly as they ought. The steering wheel’s rim is solid and not peeling, all the switchgear is in place, and the electric windows work correctly. The inside of the boot is free from water ingress, and the matching spare alloy wheel is in place. The car is fitted with stainless sill plates bearing the legend ‘Exclusive Line’, which we suspect is the flourish of a former keeper as we’re unaware of a special edition by that name. It’s an appropriate concept though, as the car does have a feel of fanciness, with its black leather seats with tasteful cream piping.

The paintwork is a highly desirable colour which suits the R107 design beautifully, and the body is in decent condition overall, with only a few areas of minor surface corrosion along the lower areas of the body (behind the offside rear wheel, and ahead of the nearside rear wheel). 

The light lenses and window glass are complete and tidy, and all of the correct chrome trim and badging is in place. The alloy wheels are the original matching items, which could perhaps benefit from an easy refurb. The car comes with its correct colour-matched hard-top, and the soft-top is good with nice clear windows and no marks, rips or holes. Aside from one or two very minor areas for improvement, it’s a complete and attractive car in a sought-after specification.

This 300 SL is a relaxing and comfortable roadster to cruise in. The smooth 3.0-litre straight-six is a torque-rich wafter, and it starts first time, idles properly, and pulls forthrightly through the revs. The automatic transmission shifts as it should, and there don’t appear to be any notable issues with the suspension, brakes or steering. It all works as it should, going about the business of doing what an SL ought to do: being solid and dependable, with just a frisson of sportiness lurking beneath the surface.

This SL is as pleasing to drive as it is to look at, and it would be equally easy to imagine yourself pottering to the shops in it, carving up some back-roads in search of a country pub, or wafting down to some far-flung coast. And this 300 SL is going to make an outstanding buy for somebody – it has the dream scenario of a desirable specification, and one or two minor cosmetics that could benefit from a little tidy… and why is that a positive? Because that’s where the value is. Bear in mind that this auction platform recently sold a tidy E-reg 300 SL for over £50,000 – so this car here could make for a very canny purchase. Bid now and bid well, because we’re anticipating a lot of interest in this one!