1987 MERCEDES-BENZ 300

E=mc² might be the most well-known equation in the world, but in second place is that Mercedes-Benz equals reliability, a reputation predicated on decades of engineering development, meticulous production standards and ultimately, some clever marketing.

It’s an equation that Mercedes trades on to this day, and is a core reason why the R107 SL is so special. Germanic good looks, a varying range of engines and a cult-like following on both sides of the pond have firmly cemented the R107 in the automotive hall of fame.

The R107 was so popular that production ran for 18 years, unheard of in today’s world of mid-life facelifts and life-cycle impulses. This example was built in the latter years of production, a 1987 300 SL, specified in Pearl Grey Metallic over a grey interior.

This SL is a shape-shifter. In the summer months, it can be spotted topless, flaunting a contrasting blue mohair roof. When the cooler weather arrives, you can fit an original specification hard-top to convert it from a top-down cruiser into a personal luxury coupe.

This car is, for many, the image at the forefront of your brain when an R107 SL is mentioned. A subtle shade of metallic paint, 15-hole alloy wheels and gleaming brightwork.

In a world of screens and a bombardment of notifications, the R107’s interior is pleasingly analogue. Simple, mechanical controls operate key functions, and every tangible surface is carefully broken in, like a great pair of loafers.

Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 3.0-litre straight-six, mated to a typically smooth automatic gearbox. The combination runs like the finest sewing machine in town, no doubt thanks to the meticulous and regular maintenance this car has received.

The car was purchased by its current owner in 2018. Whilst it was in usable shape, it did have areas that needed improving. The car was initially sent to R107 specialists, The SL Shop.

They thoroughly inspected and documented the car and, together with the owner, went about recommissioning it to the state you see today. The work included everything from suspension bushes and engine mounts to the head gasket and fuel pump.

It wasn’t just mechanical work that was undertaken. SLs of this era do tend to rust. Both sills have been addressed as well as the wheel arches, with the corroded metal being cut out and fresh metal welded in. In total, over £15,000 has been spent, with £9,500 of that spent with The SL Shop. Every piece of work has been carefully documented in the history file, which includes servicing, parts invoices and MOTs.

If you have ever considered dipping your toe into SL ownership, this car is a great place to look. With major work already being completed, you can jump straight in and enjoy this car without fear or hindrance.

As with all our vehicles, an entire digital folder is available upon request and contains more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.