Lot details Registration No: XLG625R Chassis No: 10704422039461 Mot Expiry: April 2012
The long-running R107 SL range of Mercedes-Benz two-seaters was introduced in 1971, and sold in big numbers until 1989. Built around a sturdy all-steel unit-construction body/chassis unit, the original models were the 350SL and 450SL, with 3.5-litre or 4.5-litre alloy V8 engines respectively, typically allied to automatic transmission. Independent front and rear suspension (by coil springs), four wheel disc brakes and power assisted steering were all standard, this car sharing much of its drive line and chassis technology with contemporary Mercedes-Benz saloon models, which instantly made it familiar to every dealership throughout the world. A removable hard-top was optional equipment, as was leather upholstery, both being specified by many customers. Throughout a long career, the size and visual detail of these cars did not change, except in detail, though different (usually even more powerful) engines were added in later years. Partly to take note of the Energy Crisis which developed in the 1970s, Mercedes-Benz offered a six-cylinder 280SL (from 1980), and a 3-litre 300SL in 1986. Between 1972 and 1981, there was also an SLC derivative of this SL, which had a 14-inch longer wheelbase, four passenger seats in a larger cabin, and a permanent steel roof body style.
This particular example is fitted with the 4520cc vee-8 engine (which when new was rated at 217bhp DIN) and three-speed automatic transmission. Independent road tests put the possible top speed at 136mph, and where legislation allowed it, all cars of this type could cruise comfortably at more than 100mph. Finished in blue with blue upholstery, 'XLG 625R' is understood to have had "one careful owner since 1994". Showing an unwarranted 109,000 miles to its odometer, the Mercedes-Benz is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Riding on correct-type alloy wheels, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until April 2012.
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