Across its lengthy production run, the R107-generation Mercedes-Benz SL saw a great many spec variants, and it’s the 280 SL that endured: built from 1974 until 1985, this evergreen specification featured a 2.8-litre straight-six making a robust 182bhp. Indeed, when the model was ultimately replaced by the 300 SL, it was mooted in some corners that the outgoing 280 was superior; the 300 may have had a bigger displacement and a handful more horsepower, but it was a SOHC unit whereas the 280’s motor was a vivacious twin-cam. And, of course, the car that the 2.8-litre engine is wrapped up in is a very attractive package: an exercise in tactility, and comfort – a cruiser with a sporting edge, equally at home on the Riviera or the Kings Road.

We’ve seen a lot of R107s over the years, and it really isn’t often that you find one as honest and compelling as this one. Built in May 1985 and originally delivered to the Bahamas, it came to the UK in September 1986 and has lived here ever since. The interior is unrestored and looks fabulous, resplendent in its Karo cloth and MB-Tex, while the exterior (fully repainted in its original colour in 2002) is very handsome indeed. There’s an impressive history file, including every MOT back to 1988, which verifies the mileage; the clock reads 179,000, but bear in mind that this originally Bahaman car has kilometre dials, so the mileage is actually 111,000. 

The car has received all sorts of loving attention over the years, including a top-end engine rebuild and underside Waxoyl protection, and it comes equipped with desirable factory-option extras – namely, cruise control and rear seats.
 A beautifully presented example that’s highly pleasing to drive, it’s also worth noting that as of April this year it will be ULEZ compliant, as well as MOT and tax exempt. 

 • Super condition inside and out 

 • Soft- and hard-tops in very good condition 

The interior of this SL is in good order throughout, testament to having been truly cherished for so many years. The seats are strong and supportive, with the original Karo cloth and MB-Tex in great condition, and this car benefits from the optional rear seats too. There are no warning lights illuminated on the dash, and the dials are working properly – again, remember that you’re looking at kilometrage rather than mileage on the odometer here. 111,000 is an impressively modest figure for its age, and it’s all verified by the paperwork.

The walnut trim is in good condition with no sun damage, the electric windows work efficiently, and the car is fitted with a Blaupunkt Melbourne radio-cassette head unit which correctly raises and lowers the electric aerial when turned on and off. Inside the boot it’s all clean and tidy, with a neat carpet and the matching spare wheel.

The factory hard-top is in great condition with good window glass and a tidy headlining. It’s all dry and solid under the tonneau, and the soft top is a quality item with nice clear window panes.

The bodywork is remarkably good throughout; the car’s evidently been well-loved and stored inside. All of the chrome trim is present and correct, and the light lenses are good. The car is fitted with the desirable ‘Mexican hat’ alloy wheels, wearing a matching set of Michelin Energy tyres. 

 • Very smooth and reliable runner 

 • Optional cruise control fitted 

This is a car that’s always been correctly maintained, and it’s clear from the way it runs that it’s always received love and proper attention. The SL drives superbly; that creamy-smooth 2.8-litre straight-six fires up on the first turn of the key and settles into an even idle, and it pulls willingly through the gears, with the auto ’box shifting smoothly just as it should. The history file shows us that the engine was treated to a top end rebuild in 2003; it’s recently been serviced and treated to a new battery. The suspension rides smoothly and the brakes feel nice and strong. This freshly valeted example really is an SL that you can jump into and enjoy straight away.

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: 

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s 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. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.