Description
1988 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (R107) – Exceptional History – Solid Bulkhead & Mechanical Overhaul
As with any classic car, it is often said that you should buy the best, most cherished and mechanically sorted example you can find. If you’ve done your homework, you’ll know the common vulnerabilities of the R107 - the most significant being rust in the bulkhead - which can cost thousands to fix.
When my search started, I knew what I wanted: a late 300SL (arguably the best character, with the galvanised body) in Signal Red (in my opinion, the ONLY colour to have!), with great provenance, a rust-free body and clear signs of mechanical love through its life. Somewhat of a tall order! After an exhaustive search involving multiple viewings of cars that fell short of my expectations, this is the car I chose. I purchased it from a fellow enthusiast who kept it as part of a five-car collection, and in my ownership, I have enjoyed elevating it with sympathetic upgrades to address the typical ‘wallowy’ handling well known with the R107.
Mechanical & Condition:
The most critical point for any R107 buyer: the bulkhead was inspected in October 2024 and is absolutely solid (see photo). For peace of mind, while the heater box was out the bulkhead tray was treated with rust converter and Waxoyled before reassembly (photos available).
Last year, I invested significantly in the handling. I replaced the brake calibers, pads and disks for new items from the SL Shop, and after lots of research and speaking with the team at The SL Shop I chose Koni Red Classic adjustable shock absorbers, sport line springs, new rubber shims and 17" staggered Performa alloy wheels with fresh rubber. It now drives with a level of confidence many R107s lack, and will not need consumables like brakes, tyres etc for some time. All original parts, including the 15” Gullideckel wheels and Continental tyres, are included should you wish to return it to factory specification.
The car is finished in iconic Signal Red with the desirable rear-seat option and dark check cloth interior - which is immaculate. It has an upgraded period-look Blaupunkt stereo with bluetooth, and this car has the expensive factory option of rear speakers. The car underwent a 3-stage machine polish a year ago so the paintwork looks better than new with a mirror shine. The boot handle chrome was also recently replaced with a new item from SL Shop.
History & Provenance:
This car boasts one of the most comprehensive history files I have ever seen.
* Service History: 25 stamps (predominantly MB Main Dealer/ Specialists) across the original service book and an extension booklet.
* Mileage: Total verified mileage is 124, 276. Note: The speedometer was replaced in 1992 at 19, 507 miles (documented); the odometer currently reads 104, 769.
* Maintenance: A4 folder bursting with receipts, MOTs, and invoices. Last serviced October 2025 (500 miles ago).
* Original owners booklet, leather wallet, and even the cruise control documentation
* Two original keys
* MOT: Clean pass in October 2025 with zero advisories.
It comes with the matching Signal Red hardtop (immaculate), a floor stand, and a fitted SL Shop breathable cover. Also includes the original Mercedes tool kit and first aid kit!
I am only selling to return to a manual Porsche 911 of the same era; if I had the garage space to keep both, I certainly would.
