Highlights
- Low mileage example
- Rare factory hardtop present
- Garage-stored through the winters
- Only 4 keepers, two of which were husband and wife
The Appeal
When it comes to luxurious grand tourers, the 500SL stands as an automotive gem. The seamless blend of elegance, cutting-edge technology and staggering performance is what continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
This handsomely kept 500 is among the few good ones left, with the factory two-tone hard top present and in dashing condition. The current keeper has had possession of the car for the last 10 years, and has ensured that it has been painstakingly taken care of to ensure good health regardless of cost - even going as far as tucking it away for the winter months to protect the excellent bodywork.
The History and Paperwork
- Originally registered on the 14th of July 1983
- V5C present and correct, ready for transfer of ownership
- Thick pile of previous MOT certificates present with the vehicle
- Original Mercedes booklets present with service stamps in place
- Original Blaupunkt radio manual present
- Invoices present for previous work undertaken as well as any parts bought for the vehicle
- Old tax discs present with the vehicle
- Current MOT present until the 30th of January 2025
- Mileage issues shown in previous MOTs however this has been proven incorrect and has an official DVLA letter to say the MOT certificates are incorrect, as well as stating the correct mileage
The Condition
- Handsomely original condition
- Original Lapis Blue paintwork which is reportedly presented in good health. The keeper states that there are two small blemishes around approximately 1cm in size, and states they have been there since he took ownership
- The original hardtop remains in lovely shape with the silver paintwork well presented, and lovely brightwork trim present
- Soft top rarely used and therefore in stunning condition with no unwelcome rips or tears to be found
- Interior upholstery remains in excellent condition with both front seats showing no damage to any of the bolsters, an all of the stitching appears to be intact across the fabric portions of the seats
- Dashboard remains free of any cracks or damage, and the wooden trim all look to be well maintained with no signs of any delamination or cracks
- Gauges and switchgear all function as you would expect, with no unwelcome warning signs present on the dashboard
This 500SL is undeniably handsome, and when presented in such original form with no reported restoration, it makes you appreciate the careful custodians which have looked over it to ensure it has seen the proper care and attention it deserves. Finished in a stunning Lapis Blue with a contrasting Silver hard top, it remains classy in all the right ways. The beauty only continues when you slip inside this luxurious drop-top, with comfortable seats and plush carpets making you feel right at home.
The Mechanics
- Powerful M117 5.0-litre V8 engine, reported to be in excellent mechanical condition and producing a stout 228bhp and 298 lb-ft of torque at the command of your right foot
- 4-speed automatic transmission which remains smooth and trouble-free, shifting through the gears uninterrupted and with ease
- Rear-wheel drive configuration ensuring a sporty driving experience with well balanced handling
- Excellent service history with a recent MOT showing no advisories for the vehicle
- New manifold and rear silencer fitted in August 2013
- New bonnet insulation fitted in July 2014
- New alternator fitted in August 2015
- New front brake callipers fitted in November 2022
- Original underside examined in excellent condition with no underseal to hide anything
Fitted with the highly regarded M117 engine, this SL is no slouch when you want it to get up and boogie, and boy does it sound good when it boogies, too! A wonderful mix of performance and luxury, the SL meets everyone's expectations when they hear the name Mercedes-Benz. This is truly a vehicle worthy of the three-pointed star, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face regardless of age.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
