1988 Mercedes 300 SL Automatic

Some cars just get better looking with age and the W107 Series Mercedes-Benz SL is definitely among them.Overshadowed for a long time by its graceful "Pagoda' predecessor, it's now becoming better appreciated for what it is - a beautifully built sports roadster that is totally dependable. To this day, no car door closes with a more reassuring "thunk' than a Mercedes SL, and everything about the car suggests solid engineering.Fast, comfortable and discreetly understated, the SL has a matchless ability to munch up the miles for year after year without ever seeming to falter. No wonder it stayed in production, fundamentally unaltered, from 1971 until 1989 - the longest production run of any Mercedes car to date.Launched in 1985, and remaining in production until 1989, the 300SL is often considered to be the pick of the SL range, falling mid-way between the 2.8-litre and 5-litre V8 models. It was powered by a creamy-smooth 3-litre straight six that employed a new KE Jetronic fuel injection system linked to a modern engine management computer that not only achieved better fuel economy than the 280 it replaced, but offered more power as well. When this 'state of the art' modern engine was mated to the improved 4-speed gearbox it became a very effective package and epitomised intelligent Teutonic engineering.The official figures were 185bhp and 188lb/ft of torque, sufficient to propel the car to 60mph in just 9.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 130mph. Almost as quick as the larger V8 models, it was not only more frugal but also handled better thanks to improved weight distribution.The automatic 300SL offered here today was first registered on the 1st of August 1988 and has been enjoyed by eight owners since. Finished in Arctic White with a matching hardtop and cloth interior, the indicated mileage is around 146,000 and the vehicle is accompanied by its V5, a number of old MoTs (most recent 20/06/2014) and its Maintenance Booklet stamped up until October 2013.Whilst in generally good condition, this lovely white SL will need recommissioning before being returned to the road. We are advised that both sills will need replacing and further work will be required before an MoT will be granted, however these cars were properly built and an ideal basis for a bit of a refurb.With asking prices for eighties SL convertibles in fine fettle up around £15,000, the guide price for the car you see here could make it an ideal project for the trade or an SL enthusiast.