Highlights

Good paperwork file
Underbody restoration reportedly undertaken in 2021
Recently registered as a history vehicle

The Appeal

With the rising value of the W113’s, and the R129 being a bit ‘too modern’ for some folk, the R107 has since gained a tremendous fan following. The car represents a time when big lumpy V8’s were everything you could have wanted, hardly a surprise given how well-made the SL was. But then, big V8’s quickly empty your pockets when the world was burdened by the fuel crisis. And thus, the straight-six powered variants of the SL was born! These humble 280’s may have lacked in the outright power of its big brothers, however it made for a lighter driving experience with less weight over the nose, and presented the driver with all of the luxuries of those costing a considerable amount more. They could even be specced with a manual box!

This handsome example we have presented here shows itself in admirable detail, with a recent underbody restoration completed in 2021 which consisted of cleaning the undercarriage and undersealing it to further prevent any corrosion. It retains a good history file with documentation showing the car spent some time in California between 2010 to 2017, with some recent mechanical work undertaken this year to ensure it remains road-ready for any new custodian.

The History and Paperwork

V5C present and correct, ready for transfer of ownership
Mercedes owners manual
Previous invoices for mechanical work
MOT certificates and invoices for repairs
Mercedes maintenance booklet
Vehicle exported to california in 2010, where the speedometer was changed for US spec
Imported back to the UK in 2017, where it sat idle until the current owner purchased it in 2020, the speedometer was changed back to a secondhand MPH gauge, showing the incorrect mileage however the mileage has been thoroughly documented
Underbody restoration undertaken in 2020 and completed in 2021
MOT passed with no advisories on the 22nd of April 2022
2023 MOT shows a long list of advisories and failures, which we believe have all been sorted to keep the car in good health
Now MOT and road tax exempt, registered as a historic vehicle

The Interior

Stunning originality
Black leather upholstery with cloth inserts, presenting itself in outstanding condition front and back with no visible rips or tears on the seats
Original steering wheel shown in good condition with hints of age
Gauge cluster remains clear and easy to read with no fading or unwelcome warning lights, the odometer had been changed from the original and shows less miles than the car has, however the mileage is documented to show approximately 135,000 miles in total
Dashboard appears to be in great condition with no cracks or damage present
Wooden veneer shows some hints of age, however no delamination of splits can be spotted
The small wooden trim to the right of the steering wheel shows some damage
Upgraded JVC head unit installed
Glove compartment shows some slight misalignment on the right side, however does not appear to affect the functionality of the locking mechanism
Brightwork throughout appears to be in excellent condition with just light signs of use with gentle scratching, no delamination or pitting can be seen
Door cards remain excellent with some slight scuffs on the storage pocket on the driver side as to be expected
Convertible top appears to be in great condition with no damage, and the folding mechanism is in great working order

The Exterior

Original red paintwork showing light signs of age and patina as to be expected
Bodywork appears good with some hints of rust bubbles appearing on the bootlid and some paint blemishes on the front driver side wing
Headlights appear in good shape with no apparent damage present on he lenses and remain in good working order
Brightwork throughout appears to be well maintained with no blemishing noticed
Convertible top remains in lovely shape with no damage present and good stitching
Rear lights remain well kept with no damage to the lenses
Body panels appear to be straight and true with no hints of previous damage, and good shut lines throughout the vehicle
Wheels appear in good shape with the usual marks around the outer edge, tyres could be doing with replacement as they show date codes of 2011 and 2012
Some corrosion noticed behind the rear seats, where the convertible top folds away

The Mechanics

2.8-litre inline-six petrol engine, reported to remain in good mechanical health with no known problems
Automatic transmission reportedly in good condition, no unwelcome grinding or clunks can be noticed between gear changes, smooth sailing!
Rear-wheel drive configuration provides an engaging driving experience
Underside ‘restoration’ complete in 2021, bringing the underside back to a healthy state
Steering we believe remains in good health with excellent manoeuvrability, assisted by the low weight over the front axle instead of a hefty V8 lump
Brakes are reported to function as they should, having no influence on vehicle direction upon heavy application. MOT failure in 2023 for brake pipes which have been replaced along with brake hoses
Good service history with its most recent checkup and service on the 30th of July 2023
After the 2023 MOT failure the vehicle received new rear brake hoses and pipes, new prop shaft coupling, both rear anti roll bar bushes, nearside front link as well as replacing the leaking cam cover gasket
Other repairs are reported to be undertaken as well as advisory repairs
Owner states it is a pleasure to drive, often taking it out for a leisurely drive

Summary

The 280SL is the underdog of the line-up, lighter than its big brothers with most of the bells and whistles. And the best part, it won’t chomp bills out of your wallet to pay for its drinking addiction like its V8 variants do. This is a handsome example in need of some gentle TLC to bring it back up to scratch, the potential for a very quick and easy restoration could well be on the cards. Even without, it remains a handsome head-turner that anyone would be proud to own!

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.