• Modern classic design

• Legendary build quality

• Performance and economy

• All year round practicality

Mercedes-Benz borrowed the chassis for it’s new SL from the W114 saloon. The 300SL (R107) followed on from the 280SL and enjoyed a long production run from 1971 through to 1989. The

well engineered build quality that Mercedes are undoubtedly renowned for continued with their flagship SL range.

Mercedes got the styling of the perfectly proportioned body and reliability of the performance engines correct right from the start. The SL optimises luxurious convertible touring, and during its 18 years production run received regular improvements to the economy, safety and comfort. As the later third generation, this SL is arguably the one to have owing to theses ultimate, subtle upgrades.    

 

Little is known about the history of this right hand drive 300SL. The vendor tells us that it was part of a collection in Ireland for some time until the previous owner acquired it in November 2019.

As you will notice, although being roadworthy with what appears to be a strong engine and body, this desirable roadster will benefit from some attention in the long term. 

This Mercedes comes with a few old MOT certificates and the V5 which indicates that this 300SL was first registered on 1st August 1987. There are no service records.

Looking online, the current MOT ‘Pass’ is valid until 6th November 2021 and the mileage was declared “unreadable”. There were two minor defects noted such as damage to the windscreen, and four advisories, including play in the steering rack inner joint(s). The tax also runs until November 2021. 

The cream/oatmeal interior is tired and has somewhat suffered at the hands of the elements. The dash top and dash, which features walnut trim, is generally good but the sun appears to have faded and cracked some of the trim and in particular the leather seats. The door trims are generally good although the drivers side has some damage near the bottom and to the door pocket. The door opening catch is also loose. However, the Hard top roof lining is in excellent condition.   

The steering wheel is split around the Mercedes emblem and some switches show signs of use and most noticeably, the mirror adjustment fittings are missing. The vendor hasn’t confirmed if

all the electrical equipment operates correctly but the dash lights certainly glow when the ignition key is turned on and the gauges spring into life when the engine confidently fires up.

The beautifully styled galvanised body appears to be very straight and structurally sound and the underside looks solid upon first inspection. The red paintwork on the body and factory colour coded removable hardtop is glossy and presentable. There are some signs of rust in the lower rear corners of the hardtop and the odd scratch on the body, but nothing significant. The bottoms of the doors, valences and sill areas appear free of corrosion and stone chips.

As you can see from the photographs, two lower side trims have become detached and the rubber trims on the bumpers are damaged. All the brightwork is shiny, particularly the front grille, although the rear bumper chrome is displaying some rust down the sides. The windscreen has a crack on the nearside, the offside headlight is cracked and the glass is missing from the nearside front fog light - despite this, all these issues should be relatively easy fixes.  

The SL sits on original flat face 15” alloy wheels and 205/65 R15 older but serviceable tyres.

Upon lifting the bonnet, the engine bay looks smart clean and original for the age of the car. The straight 6 2962cc engine, producing around 185bhp, is mated to a 3-speed auto-box and should be capable of reaching 130mph.    

As mentioned, the engine readily springs into life and ticks over smoothly with no obvious knocks or rattles. The vendor assures us that the automatic transmission is smooth, the suspension is effective and the four ABS disc brakes bring this 300SL to an effective stop.

Running the straight-six is an affordable option on modern roads and parts and servicing are well catered for by specialist companies.

The sleek open top Mercedes-Benz 300SL is always going to remain a style Icon and with regular care and attention should offer enjoyment for years to come.

Evidently in need of some TLC, this particular example still deserves to live on as a highly desirable and usable modern classic.