1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 1 of 92)
92
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 1 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 2 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 3 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 4 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 5 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 6 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 7 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 8 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 9 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 10 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 11 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 12 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 13 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 14 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 15 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 16 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 17 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 18 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 19 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 20 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 21 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 22 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 23 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 24 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 25 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 26 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 27 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 28 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 29 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 30 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 31 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 32 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 33 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 34 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 35 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 36 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 37 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 38 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 39 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 40 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 41 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 42 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 43 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 44 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 45 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 46 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 47 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 48 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 49 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 50 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 51 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 52 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 53 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 54 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 55 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 56 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 57 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 58 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 59 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 60 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 61 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 62 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 63 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 64 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 65 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 66 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 67 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 68 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 69 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 70 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 71 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 72 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 73 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 74 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 75 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 76 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 77 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 78 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 79 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 80 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 81 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 82 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 83 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 84 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 85 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 86 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 87 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 88 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 89 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 90 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 91 of 92)
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) For Sale (picture 92 of 92)
Winning bid
£10,200

1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107)

Highlights

  • Astral Silver Metallic with matching factory hard top in very good condition
  • Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system fully refurbished in 2023
  • Complete brake system overhaul in 2022 using genuine Mercedes-Benz parts
  • Solid, rust-free chassis with no evidence of structural damage



The Appeal

Get a roadster, pump up the proportions and pack the cabin with executive comfort, and you've got an R107. These cars are one of the most enduring classics in history, from a wonderful time when it seemed Mercedes-Benz really were the greatest marque on the planet. All of their cars during the 70s and 80s seemed to be hewn from granite, and this era of the SL series is easily one of the best-remembered.

This 1981 example stands out for its honest presentation and comprehensive mechanical care, making it an increasingly desirable classic that combines timeless styling with genuine usability. Finished in the classic Astral Silver Metallic with blue interior, this 380SL is a solid, well-maintained and eminently drivable classic that's ready and waiting to go. 

image.png 1.75 MB

History and Paperwork

  • Registered in 1981
  • The DVLA records 10 former keepers
  • In current ownership since 2021
  • MOT exempt
  • We're told the vendor has only driven in fair weather and kept away from salt/wet conditions
  • Numerous invoices for recent work available for inspection

image.png 1.33 MB

The Condition

  • Finished in Astral Silver Metallic with good shine and flat finish
  • No obvious corrosion or bubbling on bodywork (wheel arches, sills, lower doors, scuttle panel all solid)
  • Some age-related imperfections: light stone chips on nose section, minor clear coat blemishes
  • All chrome trim, bumpers and brightwork present and correct, with only light weathering
  • Lights and lenses clear and crack-free
  • Comes with matching silver factory hard top in good condition
  • Blue fabric soft top in good working order with no tears or sagging
  • Rear plastic windows mostly clear with minor signs of age
  • Chassis appears solid and free from corrosion or poor repairs
  • We can't discern any signs of structural rust, patching, or accident damage
  • Floorpans, jacking points, and suspension mountings are reportedly in sound, original condition
  • Original blue MB-Tex vinyl with matching carpets and trim
  • Honest, original condition with light patina consistent with age
  • Seats structurally sound but show signs of wear and creasing
  • No rips or tears in upholstery, though fabric looks tired
  • Dashboard free from cracks 
  • Dashboard wood trim intact with minor fading and hairline marks
  • Carpets and door cards complete and clean with light signs of use
  • Soft top liner tidy and intact
  • All instruments, gauges, and switchgear function correctly
  • Heater and ventilation controls are reportedly fully operational
  • We're told the electric radio antenna works smoothly
  • Upgraded audio system with new speakers, modern head unit with DAB and Bluetooth

image.png 1.77 MB

The Mechanics

  • 3.8-litre V8 engine
  • 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system fully refurbished in 2023 by KMI Petrol Injection
  • Idle control module and valve replaced with OEM Mercedes-Benz parts in 2023
  • Complete brake system overhaul in 2022 (new callipers, discs, pads on all four corners)
  • Handbrake mechanism refurbished
  • All brake work used genuine Mercedes-Benz parts
  • New battery fitted in 2022, still performing well
  • Always run on high-octane, low-ethanol fuel to protect injection system components
  • The vendor adds: 
    • Engine starts easily and pulls smoothly with V8 burble
    • Automatic gearbox operates smoothly with crisp shifts and no slippage
    • No abnormal vibrations, noises, or smoke
    • Suspension feels compliant and well balanced with no clunks or knocks
    • All electrical systems function correctly
image.png 1.79 MB

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 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.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. 
Winning bid
£10,200
Sold

Auction Details

  • Year1981
  • MakeMercedes
  • ModelSL Class
  • ColourGold
  • Odometer126,177 Miles
  • Engine size3800cc
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Steering positionRight Hand Drive
  • Fuel typePetrol
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownLondon
  • CountyCambridgeshire
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

21 Bids

DaveE12••••
Bid
£10,200
23/07/25
robert-••••
Bid
£9,800
23/07/25
DaveE12••••
Bid
£9,700
23/07/25
RigersJ••••
Bid
£9,500
23/07/25
robert-••••
Bid
£9,250
23/07/25
DaveE12••••
Bid
£9,000
23/07/25
taylor.••••
Bid
£8,800
23/07/25
J-P••••
Bid
£8,600
23/07/25
taylor.••••
Bid
£8,500
23/07/25
RigersJ••••
Bid
£8,250
23/07/25

Buying with Car & Classic

How bidding works

All you need to know about the bidding process on Car & Classic

animation

Five steps to buying safely

We make it safe and simple to secure your dream classic

animation

Shipping & transport

Useful information on collecting your new vehicle

animation

Secure payments

How we protect you and your money, to make Car & Classic the safest place to transact

More FAQs

Gallery