Lot details Registration No: H794UAW Chassis No: WDB1290612F032272 Mot Expiry: Oct 2013
The landmark 300 of 1954 and the ensuing 190 comprised the first generation of Mercedes-Benz's iconic SL models. The second generation SL began with the 230 of 1963 and was distinguished by its lower waistline, big curved screens and a distinctive optional hardtop that earned the model its nickname of 'Pagoda top'. The larger, third generation car 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 450SL derivative arrived the following year and to three when the 280SL appeared in mainland Europe in 1974. The latter became available in the UK in October 1980, but was replaced by the 300SL in 1985. The fourth generation (R129 Series) was launched at the Geneva Motor Show of 1989 and was based on a shortened version of the W124 floorpan. 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/contemporary five-link system at the rear), adaptive damping, ventilated disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, a hidden roll-over bar that automatically extended when required, and front air bags. The specification was extensive and included electrically powered windows, mirrors, seats and convertible top.
The right-hand drive Mercedes-Benz on offer is a 1991 model 300SL equipped with the 24-valve straight-six DOHC engine mated to the four-speed automatic gearbox - its original factory output will therefore have been 228bhp at 6,300rpm. It has Silver painted bodywork and a Blue cloth interior and the vendor classes the bodywork, paintwork, interior trim, engine and automatic gearbox as "good". The car is being sold with both hard and soft tops (the soft one is said to be in "very good" condition) and service history - the odometer currently shows an unwarranted 72,000 miles. The current MOT is valid into October 2013.
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