Lot details Registration No: A4 BPE Chassis No: 1070422A003010 Mot Expiry: Nov 2010
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, coil springs and anti-roll bar at the front and semi-trailing arms, coil springs and anti-roll bar at the rear. The power assisted steering was Daimler-Benz's own recirculating ball system. Braking was by discs all round - 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 280SL offered is a righthand drive 1984 example equipped with automatic transmission. The red coachwork is matched with a black leather/cloth interior. The owner claims the car to be in "very good" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork (while, the electrics are said to "all work"). Apparently it passed its recent MOT without the need for any rectification and is taxed into next year. The Mercedes is understood to come with extensive service history and the benefit of a factory hardtop. The hood apparently has a one-inch long tear that is currently patched with tape. Properly looked after, these stylish Mercedes run and run. What the six-cylinder 280 lacks in power compared with the V8 versions, it gains in terms of fuel efficiency.
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