1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL

Lot details
Registration No: C822XLM
Chassis No: WDB1070462A033425
Mot Expiry: Nov 2006

Nicknamed the 'Panzerwagen' by Mercedes-Benz's own development engineers, the R107-series Convertible SL was the result of an extremely thorough design process. In an attempt to avoid falling foul of threatened American safety legislation, Stuttgart produced an open car whose structural rigidity surpassed that of some contemporary saloons! Indeed, even now some thirty-five years after its introduction the R107 retains a reassuring air of solidity. Allied to this was sure-footed handling courtesy of all-round independent coil-sprung suspension, power assisted steering and disc brakes. Always more of a grand tourer than an out and out sports car, the vast majority of W107s were fitted with automatic transmission.
This particular example is no exception and mates the range-topping 4973cc, OHV V8 engine to a four speed slush-box. With a reputed 240bhp and 299lbft of torque on tap, performance is suitably authoritative. Finished in metallic silver with grey leather upholstery, it is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (electrical equipment, bodywork), "very good" (engine, transmission, interior trim, chassis, paintwork) or "excellent" condition. Reportedly resprayed in its original livery, 'C822 XLM' is also understood to benefit from an "excellent soft-top, removable hardtop, stereo radio / cassette and rear seats with lap belts". Believed but not warranted to have covered 121,000 miles from new, it rides on alloy wheels shod with "four almost new tyres". Ready to drive away, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until November 6th 2006 and road tax until July 31st 2006.