1979 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL

Registration No: TOI 19
Chassis No: 10704322014273
MOT: June 2026

• Just 71,000 recorded miles on the odometer
• In current ownership since 2018 with just five former keepers
• Early model with the unspoilered front valance, ‘Mexican hat’ wheels and wind-up windows
• Finished in Pale Blue with a Blue half and half interior upholstery

PLEASE NOTE: This lot is offered with an MOT certificate until June next year.

The landmark 300SL was unveiled in 1954 and the similarly styled, but mechanically unrelated 190 followed in 1955, completing the first generation of cars. The second series of SLs (Pagoda Top) began with the 230 of 1963. The larger, third generation model (R107) was launched in 1971, initially with just a 3.5-litre engine (350 SL) mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The car featured a two-door monocoque bodyshell with independent suspension all round - double wishbones/coil springs at the front and semi-trailing arms/coil springs at the rear. Braking was by discs all round - ventilated on the front. Over its phenomenal 18-year reign, the R107 range was powered by no less than eight different engines.

Our 350SL represents the R107 in one of its earlier and, some might say, purest guises, with desirable features including the unspoilered front valance, ‘Mexican hat’ wheels and wind-up windows. The paint and hood are in very pleasing condition, and the interior appears to be original but very well-preserved. The car was originally supplied to Northern Ireland on 1st May, 1979, although it has resided for a number of years now on the British mainland. It has been with the present owner, who is only the sixth registered keeper, since 2018, and now represents a wonderful low-mileage survivor. Records indicate that the Mercedes had covered 53,280 miles by 2000, so the 70,600 miles on the odometer at present appear to be genuine.

What is quite extraordinary is that the car has covered only 600 miles since 2016, but in the present ownership it has nevertheless been MOTed annually since 2022, even though its status as a historic vehicle means MOTs are no longer a requirement. The most recent certificate was issued in August, 2024, with no advisories, so as far as we are concerned this 350SL represents an ideal car for the enthusiast seeking an open-top summer cruiser. Included in the sale are the current V5C, an original owner’s manual and British and Northern Irish test certificates running back to 2000.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452