Description
This is a right-hand-drive UK Mercedes-Benz 500SL with approximately 46, 000 miles, accompanied by an extensive history file containing supporting invoices and documentation.
Finished in its original Signal Red factory colour with its original maroon leather interior, the car has benefited from considerable recent investment to bring it to its present condition.
The bodywork has received a full professional respray in its original Signal Red, during which age-related corrosion was addressed. The original maroon leather interior has been retained and professionally restored rather than replaced, preserving the originality and period character of the car. A photographic record of the work is available.
Mechanically, the car has also benefited from significant recent attention. The 5. 0-litre V8 runs beautifully and the automatic gearbox operates smoothly. The car has been comprehensively inspected and maintained, with work carried out to the braking, suspension and cooling systems as required. Supporting invoices are included within the history file.
Both the matching removable hardtop and soft top are included.
The vehicle is now registered in the Historic Vehicle tax class and benefits from zero-rated road tax. It qualifies for MOT exemption subject to the applicable historic vehicle criteria, and TfL has confirmed that registration 1936 ND is exempt from the ULEZ charge.
The distinctive registration 1936 ND is included in the sale and has been independently valued at approximately £3, 850.
The car presents beautifully and has been prepared with the intention that its next owner can enjoy one of the most desirable versions of the R107.
I have always loved the R107 for its timeless design and the sense of glamour associated with the model. For me, it is one of the cars that truly defines the 1980s — elegant, beautifully engineered and instantly recognisable.
I was particularly drawn to this example because of its low mileage, right-hand-drive UK specification and, above all, its wonderful colour combination. Signal Red with the original maroon leather interior gives the car tremendous character and is exactly how I think an R107 should look.
There is also something wonderfully nostalgic about the 500SL. The R107 is synonymous with the style and glamour of the era and will always evoke memories of television series such as Dallas and the Mercedes roadsters associated with Bobby Ewing.
What I love most, however, is that it isn’t simply a beautiful car to look at. The 5. 0-litre V8 gives it that effortless, refined character that makes the 500SL such a special version of the R107. With the hardtop fitted it has the presence of a classic grand tourer, while with the roof down it becomes a completely different car.
I have invested considerably in bringing the car to the standard it is in today, while making a conscious effort to preserve its originality wherever possible — particularly the original maroon leather interior.
It is a car with enormous personality and one that attracts attention for all the right reasons. I will be genuinely sorry to see it go, but I would love it to go to someone who appreciates the R107 and will enjoy it as much as I have.
