1985 MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class

For more images, video and to see what our expert technicians thought of this SLSHOP Assured car head to our website PRINCIPAL FACTS: A 1985 280 SL finished in Astral Silver Metallic with a chequered cloth blue interior and matching blue fabric roof. It's covered nearly 92,000 miles since it was first registered, though it has been well maintained over those miles, that evident by its condition. It's a new set of tyres to be in drive away and enjoy condition. In time, some work to its paint would ensure it remains as good as it can be, though there's nothing so pressing needing doing it'll stop you enjoying it straight away. CONDITION SYNOPSIS: Nearly 92,000 miles might frighten some, but in truth higher mileage cars are often in finer driving condition than those with fractions of their odometer readings. That's the case here, as mechanically this 280 SL is on the button, driving as it should, with its smooth six-cylinder and four-speed automatic transmission working beautifully. We'd change the auxiliary belt as a precaution as it's showing some minor wear, and the tyres will need replacing, as while there's plenty of tread in them they're old now. If its mileage is evident anywhere it's the bodywork, which, overall, is very presentable, but closer inspection reveals some areas where some work would benefit from a bit of attention. Nothing to worry about, nor particularly pressing either. HISTORY FILE: Coming with its original handbook and service record with a pleasing collection of main dealer and specialist stamps demonstrating both its maintenance and verifying its mileage. There's a few MOTs and receipts among the files, similarly, there's some documentation relating to this car having spent some of its life on the Isle of Man - and importantly, it's legitimate return to the UK. Its file might not be bursting with a paper trail of receipts and documentation then, but the key one; its fully-stamped up service record is, and it's all present and correct here. SLSHOP SUMMARY: A great opportunity to drive a 280 SL for this summer - when it comes - this car is in a desirable colour and interior trim combination and is mechanically sound. We'd recommend changing the tyres and auxiliary belt before leaving us here at SLSHOP, and perhaps swap out the stereo head unit for something more in keeping with the interior in time. We'd keep an eye on the paintwork, and plan in some work on it during the winter so it's at its very best for next year, and many more beyond. A solid, good value 280 SL, which with not much work at all can be a great one, and with 'Historic' status looming next year meaning Tax, MOT and ULEZ exemption this car is a real winner.