Quirky German market specification: LHD, manual gearbox and rare colour scheme
Exceedingly original throughout
Dry-stored off the road from 2002 to 2017 and then again until recommissioned in 2025
Matching original hard top survives in great condition
Judiciously serviced with OEM parts
Voluntarily submitted for MOT: valid until December 2025
The Appeal
We see our fair share of R107 SLs at Car & Classic. The stylish German roadster sold particularly well in the UK, where its chic image proved highly desirable. This 1978 280 SL really stands out though, thanks to its unusual and refreshingly basic German home market specification; it doesn't even have a radio! This car's originality really shines through, no doubt aided by the fact it's spent much of its life cosseted off the road in dry storage.
So how did this German SL end up in the UK?
Well, the vendor's father purchased the car in 1999 while working in Germany. He brought it home to Great Britain with him and used it for a short while, before putting the car in storage in 2002. The SL returned to the road in 2017 and again in 2025 following some recommissioning work. Now MOT'd an returned to the road, this 'time warp' SL would be a superb addition to a Mercedes-Benz collection thanks to its unusual specification and impressive levels of originality.99a44b51-9f3f-4a15-ab18-77664896c004.jpg553.4 KB
History and Paperwork
1978 MY German home market car
Purchased in Germany in 1999 by the seller's father
Previously had 1-2 registered keepers in Germany according to the vendor
We're informed that the SL has benefitted from excellent service history with no non-standard parts
Full service history from a German Mercedes dealer, followed by copious maintenance from two garages in the UK
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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