MERCEDES 280SL Auto for Sale

Model history

The W107 (or R107 as it is also known, signifying Roadster) was the successor to the beautiful W113 "Pagoda" roofed SL. The Mercedes-Benz R107 (roadster) and C107 (coupe) were produced from 1971 - 1989, the second longest single series ever produced by the Mercedes. They were sold under the SL (R107) and SLC (C107) model names. The R107 replaced the W113 SL-Class in 1972 and was replaced by the R129 SL-Class in 1989. The R107 took the chassis components of the mid size Mercedes-Benz W114 model and mated them to the larger engines from the S-Class (W116).The SL was a 2-seat convertible/roadster with standard soft top and hardtop and optional folding seats for the rear bench. Volume production of the first car, the 350 SL, started in April 1971. Sales in North America began in 1972, and cars wore the name 350 SL, but had a larger 4.5L V8 (and were renamed 450 SL for model year 1973); the big V8 became available on other markets with the official introduction of the 450 SL on non-North American markets in March, 1973. From July, 1974 the SL could also be ordered with a fuel-injected 2.8L straight-6 as 280 SL. In 1980 the cars received a very mild make-over; the 3-speed automatic was replaced by a four-speed unit, the 280 models came with a standard 5-speed (formerly a 4-speed) manual and all five-litre cars gained a black rear spoiler lip. Following the discontinuation of the SLC in September, 1981, the 107 series continued initially as the 280, 380 and 500 SL. At this time, the V8 engines were re-tuned for greater efficiency, lost a few hp and consumed less fuel, helped by substantially numerically shorter axle ratios . From September, 1985 the 280 SL was replaced by a new 300 SL, and the 380 SL by a 420 SL; the 500 SL continued and a 560 SL was introduced for certain extra-European markets, most notably the USA. Also in 1985, the Bosch KE Jetronic was fitted. The KE Jetronic system varied from the earlier, all mechanical system by the introduction of a more modern engine management "computer", which controlled idle speed, fuel rate, and air/fuel mixture. The final car of the 18 years running 107 series - 500 SL painted Astral Silver was built on August 4, 1989 and it currently resides in the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart, Germany.

Equipment

Hard Top, 2+2 seating, Period Pioneer stereo, factory fit fire extinguisher, electric windows, original Mercedes-Benz rubber mats, first aid kit.

Interior

The superb and unblemished interior is finished in Anthracite/ Green Ascot fabric.

Exterior

Finished in Thistle Green, the exterior is immaculate for a car of it's age.

Wheels tyres and brakes

195/70/14 Michelins