Lot details Registration No: HTU286X Chassis No: WDB10704622001670 Mot Expiry: None
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 SL 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 (R107) was launched in 1971, initially with just a 3.5-litre engine (350SL) mated to 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. Over its seventeen-year reign, the R107 range was powered by no less than eight different engines - two sizes of straight-six unit and six versions of Mercedes-Benz's silky smooth 90-degree V8. The V8-powered 500SL variant was manufactured from 1980 to 1989, and with 240bhp on tap was a genuine 135mph car, with ample reserves of acceleration.
The 500SL offered is a right-hand drive 1982 example. It is understood to have had three keepers to date and is currently registering 137,241 miles, which the vendor believes but does not warrant to be correct. The bodywork is finished in Pale Yellow, and the interior trimmed in Chocolate-coloured leather. It is presently fitted with a factory hardtop, but evidently comes complete with mohair hood. It is also equipped with a Mercedes-Benz tow bar and cruise control. The vendor tells us the bulkhead is "in good order", the bodywork is "generally OK, but a bit edgy", the paintwork "needs some TLC in some areas", and the trim, SOHC V8 engine and four-speed automatic transmission are "very good". 'HTU 286X' is taxed until the end of the year and MOT'd into November.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has no current MOT or tax disc. The V5 will be made available to the new owner.
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