1989 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (R107)

A cold start issue has been found, a part ordered and will be fitted within the week after the sale at the Vendors expense. The car will then be able to be collected from the classic car specialist near Daventry

The Mercedes-Benz SL range from the 1980s was known as the R107 Series and was undoubtedly the ultimate, California-sunshine, top-down symbol of the era. Various engine options were offered but the most desirable was always the smaller 280, 6-cylinder version (which at the end of the decade became the 300) so inevitably it was always the rarest and most sought after. Launched in 1985, the 300SL was the ultimate incarnation of the updated R107 and was available for only four years with just 13,443 ever built, making them a rarity in right-hand drive. It was powered by a 2,962cc straight-six engine that produced 185bhp at 5,700rpm and 188lbft of torque at 4,400, sufficient output to endow this open-topped Mercedes with rapid acceleration and a top speed of 130mph.

This particular late-production 300SL is a UK-supplied, right-hand drive example and, with just one owner from new, this is a real opportunity to own a classic Mercedes convertible from the days when their build quality was legendary. Purchased from Gerard Mann Mercedes of Tamworth, and delivered on the 1st of August 1989 to our vendor's mother on a G plate on 'new plate day', this wonderful example has been cherished for its entire life in the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield. Stored in a dry garage, it's supplied with an extensive history file including its original books, all MOTs and Tax Discs over its complete life. Having covered only 26,300 miles in its first 21 years, it was parked up around 12 years ago and has been stored ever since. Our vendors have ensured that the engine was turned over regularly and, having now decided to bring it to the market, they have had it simply serviced and put through an MOT, pleasingly with 'Nil Advisories'. The indicated mileage at the time of consignment was 26,328.

The optional hardtop roof has never been off, but it is believed that the soft top underneath is likely unmarked. The interior still appears 'showroom fresh' as do the tool kit and spare wheel. Our vendors have sensibly agreed to have the car sympathetically detailed prior to the sale, just to bring back the lovely finish that you would expect in such a low mileage Mercedes.

As has been said many times, a car is only original once, and this SL remains delightfully original. There is slight marking to the edge of the driver's door, a reflection of the access in the garage more than anything, and a small mark on the bumper but we have agreed with our vendor that this is something that any purchaser might choose to attend to or leave as is, given the incredible condition of the rest of the car. 

So here we have a very low mileage, one owner from new Mercedes-Benz in exceptional condition, with the optional hardtop fitted, and an interior that belies it's 33 years, ready for a new owner to cherish for the next thirty years.