Highlights

Handsome paint job in Tiefsee Blau Metallic
Excellent condition inside and out
Bodywork in excellent condition
Comprehensive restoration and respray
New exhaust, bumpers and brakes and just serviced
UK registered & UK V5, physically located in Dublin

The Appeal

V8 power, refined luxury, and sporty underpinnings. The 380SL further developed the R107 chassis, which was first introduced in 1972 by the 350SL, and made for an extremely popular model during its run in the US market. And rightly so, as we all know the words “sports car” and “durable” often don’t fall into the same sentence unless they’re connected by a phrase like “are not”, but the R107 is indeed, durable and sporty. Because it was impossible for Mercedes to make a flimsy car in the late-60’s and ‘70s, the 380SL benefits from the same solidity and undeniable heft as more conventional Benz’s of the era. It is, in fact, built like a tank.

This handsome example has been treated to an extensive restoration and respray in Tiefsee Blau. With the exhaust, bumpers and brakes also renewed and freshly serviced too, this is a great opportunity to buy a smart SL where the work has already been done.

The History and Paperwork

Originally registered on the 13th of May 1981
V5C present and correct, ready for transfer
Comes with service and maintenance paperwork
Vehicle is MOT exempt, with the previous MOT being complete on the 9th of May 2011 with no advisories
Mileage on the DVLA website is consistent from 2006 where it covered on average 1-2000 miles a year.
However just before the car went into storage in 2011 there shows a minor discrepancy of around 2,000 miles where the MOT reading appears higher than the Odometer reading on the dashboard. We can’t be certain but it looks likely that this may have been a clerical error by the MOT testing station.
Vehicle is currently on a SORN
Comprehensive bodywork restoration that included removing all corroded steel, welding in new sections and panels and respraying inside and out
New exhaust, bumpers and brakes
Has just been serviced

The Interior

Creme leather upholstery wonderfully presented, both front seats are very well preserved showing no signs of damage on the material and no damage or the stitching or piping
Brown carpet in handsome condition with only gentle signs of use, no rips or tears are noted
Steering wheel has some gentle hints of age, with some scuffs located on the horn cover
Gauges all appear to be functional and remain easy to read with no fading ro misting of the covers
Dashboard remains free from any cracks or damage, and the wooden veneer all appears well kept with only some gentle hints of age
Door cards in good condition with Pioneer speaker in the lower portions
Centre console shows gentle patina, all of the switchgear remains functional and the original Clarion radio remains in place
Boot compartment well presented, with the original First Aid kit present

The Exterior

Stunning Tiefsee Blau paintwork
Bodywork all appears to be straight and true with no notable dents or damage
Shut lines all of factory fitment
Brightwork all excellent, with no pitting or tarnishing present throughout
Headlights and tail lights remain free from damage and all appear functional
Wheels all handsomely presented with only some very minor markings present
Tyres appear to have date codes from 2005 and would require replacement before use
Some light paint chipping under the rear passenger side arch just on the fold above the wheel
Convertible top very nicely presented with no apparent damage, all of the stitching remains intact and no fading or discolouration throughout
All badge designations present and only showing gentle hints of age
The tailgate lifting system has been modified to accept the more conventional pull spring assist, this was preferred over the original torsion springs which gave the present owner hardship.
Hood is new

The Mechanics

3.8-litre V8 petrol engine
4-speed automatic transmission
Rear-wheel drive configuration
Bosch Jetronic fuel injection reportedly in good health
Independent front and rear, double wishbone suspension
We believe the engine is in good working order with no mechanical issues present, however with the car being off the road it is always advisable to check over
We understand the gearbox to be in good mechanical condition, gliding easily through gears without any unwelcome crunches or grinding noises present
Brakes are reportedly in good health with a strong and confident bite
Steering is reported to remain as you would expect, good feedback and precise positioning with servo assistance

Summary

The R107 makes for a handsome and classy example of a proper, well built German sportster from Mercedes. Robust, reliable, and undoubtedly popular in any market makes the vehicle an excellent addition to anyone's driveway - especially one found in such lovely condition as this.

This beautifully presented 380SL comes with the reassurance of all that structural renewal and refreshment. Just serviced too, so perhaps it’s time to get that top down and let that gorgeous V8 rumble as you cruise through the streets and turn the heads of every passerby.

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.*

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.

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.