1987 Mercedes-Benz SL 500

Highlights 

• Iconic luxury '80s sports car

• Late model example

• 240bhp, 5.0-litre V8 engine

• Good history

• In great condition throughout 

• Comes with both hard and soft tops

• Recent full service and long MOT

Overview

For those who were around and grew up in the '80s it's perhaps the third generation R107 that is the most iconic of Mercedes' much venerated SL sports car. Yes, the SL is still being made today but there's just something about the R107 that evokes certain nostalgic feelings of yearning for a simpler time, and indeed a more elegant and engaging German GT.

Historically the conveyance of the elite and the wheels of the well-to-do, the mere fact that it was chosen, and indeed regarded so highly by the wealthy and the influential goes to show just how good of a car the R107 SL was, and still is. With an understated yet timeless design that takes numerous cues from the original SL, the R107, despite being a statement of wealth, is not overly ostentatious which is still part of its charm today. Another reason for its popularity is just how well-engineered these cars are, not to mention the fact that they're also available with a choice of V8 engines under the bonnet.

Benefiting from a number of updates over the course of its 18 year production run it's the later cars, like this particular 1987 SL 500, that are arguably the most desirable, owing to the fact that the brakes were now much improved and the engines were more efficient and came equipped with a better ECU and fuel injection, among other enhancements.

Coming to market with a decent history file, including a recent full service, this Mercedes-Benz SL 500 roadster features the venerable 5.0-litre V8 mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox (which is arguably the best combo for these cars) and is reportedly driving well with typical SL smoothness. Presenting in superb shape for its age and mileage it looks to be a commendable example of one of M-B's most recognisable and revered models and comes with both soft and removable hard tops.

History and documentation

• 1987 model year

• V5C present and correct

• In current ownership since 30 Oct 2013

• First registered 20 Feb 1987

• Six registered former keepers

• Two keys

• The immobiliser fobs are reported to be in good working order although one has seen better days and both have lost the attachments to the keys as the plastic has broken through age; the seller is looking to obtain replacement fobs before the end of the auction

• Numerous invoices for parts, servicing and maintenance, including head gasket replacement plus seals, gearbox refresh plus brake and suspension work 

• Last serviced at 107,740 miles

• HPI clear

• MOT until 08 Mar 2027

• 107,749 indicated miles

Interior

• Very well presented throughout

• Light tan leather upholstery remains in excellent condition

• Some light signs of wear to high traffic areas commensurate with age and mileage

• No reports of any issues with the gauges, switchgear or electrics

• Wood veneer trim presents well with no major damage

• Door cards and carpets are in great shape

• Blaupunkt DAB radio and upgraded speakers front and back

• No signs of any water ingress

• Door hinges and kickplates are clean and in good condition

• Both roof linings are in great shape with only a few light marks to the convertible to note

• Boot space is clean and tidy

• Full size matching spare wheel and tyre present and correct along with original tool kit and jack

• Engine bay presents well without being overly detailed

Exterior

• In excellent condition for its age

• Metallic blue paintwork remains in great shape with minimal blemishes

• Shut lines are uniform around the car

• No obvious evidence of any major damage or corrosion but there are a couple of small areas of surface rust beginning to show as highlighted in the photos

• All brightwork presents well 

• Blue convertible roof is in good condition with only a small area of damage to the stitching on the nearside bottom corner to mention

• The matching hard top looks to be in fine fettle

• Original 15” wheels all appear be in great condition with no kerb damage but there is some very light oxidisation in places to mention

• Michelin Energy Saver tyres fitted at all four corners which the vendor reports are still fine but may need replacing in the next two years

• The underside looks to be solid with only the usual light surface rust in places to highlight

Mechanical

• 240bhp, 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine 

• Four-speed automatic gearbox 

• Rear-wheel drive

• 0-60mph in 6.9s

• 140mph top speed

• Head gasket replaced July 2019

• Rear main seal replaced Sep 2019

• Full gearbox service Nov 2019

• Four wheel alignment Apr 2022

• The vendor informs us that the car starts and stops well and is incredibly smooth

Summary

A truly iconic '80s hero, the Mercedes-Benz R107 SL 500 will forever remain an aspirational vehicle regardless of when you decide to pick one up and you could certainly do a lot worse than this particular example. It looks good, reportedly drives well and has clearly been maintained to a high standard judging by its recent history. Smooth and powerful, handsome and refined you're sure to garner admiring glances and nods of approval wherever you choose to show up. 

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Guildford, Surrey.