Lot details Registration No: H521XUG Chassis No: WDB1290602F026012 Mot Expiry: Aug 2011
Mercedes have been producing an SL (Sport Leicht) model or range of models since 1954, when the landmark 300SL was unveiled. The similarly styled, but mechanically unrelated, 190 followed in 1955, completing the first generation of cars. The second generation SLs began with the 230 of 1963. It was distinguished by its lower waistline, big curved screens and a distinctive optional hardtop that earned the model its nickname of 'Pagoda top'. Over its nine years of production, the second generation SL's engine grew in capacity from 2.3-litres (230SL) to 2.5-litres (250SL) and finally to 2.8-litres (280SL). The larger, third generation SL was launched in 1971, initially with just a 3.5-litre engine (350SL) mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The car featured a two-door monocoque bodyshell with independent suspension all round - double wishbone and coil springs at the front and semi-trailing arms and coil springs at the rear. The power assisted steering was Daimler-Benz's own recirculating ball system. Braking was by discs - ventilated on the front. The range grew to two models when the 4.5-litre (450SL) derivative arrived the following year and to three when the 2.8-litre (280SL) appeared in mainland Europe in 1974. The latter became available in the UK from October 1980 and remained in production until 1985, when it was replaced by the 300SL. The fourth generation (R129 Series) was launched at the Geneva Motor Show of 1989. It was a beautifully-engineered car that bristled with technical refinement and innovative safety features. The specification included independent suspension all round (double wishbone at the front/five link system at the rear), adaptive damping, ventilated disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, integral roll-over bar and front air bags.
The right-hand drive 300SL offered was manufactured in 1991. The coachwork is finished in Arctic White and the interior trimmed in patterned Blue fabric. This smart Mercedes is equipped with a matching white hardtop as well as a Blue mohair hood. It is understood to come complete with service book containing 12 stamps, a full set of factory manuals, a spare set of keys, plus various receipts and old MOTs. It is taxed until the end of July and MOT'd into August.
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