1987 MERCEDES-BENZ (R107) 500 SL

KEY FACTS

• Sensitively restored in 2019, this is a well-maintained example of an early facelift R107, boasting a detachable hard top and extensive history.
• Under the bonnet is the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, sending 237bhp to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission.
• This stylish classic cruiser is offered in a highly original condition, and in a timeless colour choice.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Riding on its original recently restored 15-inch alloy wheels shod with a new set of Avon ZV7 tyres, the car is finished in glossy Arctic White over a handsome Royal Blue leather interior, complete with smart walnut veneer accents on the centre console and dashboard.
• Included in the factory specification is a limited-slip differential, cruise control, heated outside rear view mirrors, and headlamp wiper units.
• The car is fitted with a Cobra alarm system with remote locking, and an Alpine stereo system with electric aerial.
• This R107 is accompanied by a raft of paperwork documenting the car’s history and impressive service history, CD detailing the car’s restoration in 2019, spare wheel, and detachable hard top and stand.

CONDITION

• There is no known bodywork damage, having been carefully restored in 2019.
• The resprayed Arctic White paintwork is in excellent condition and exhibits a high shine. Only a few blemishes are apparent, including some micro-blistering on the boot lid, a slight scuff on the nearside rear bumper rubber, and a few very small stone chips around the vehicle commensurate with its age and mileage, visible only upon close inspection.
• The recently replaced soft top is in excellent condition, showing no significant signs of wear. The colour-coordinated detachable hard top also presents very well.
• Moving inside, the original Royal Blue cabin presents very well for its age, save for a couple of small cracks in the dashboard, and some general wear on the leather seats.
• There are no known electrical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was in August 2021 at 118,726 miles, resulting in a first-time pass. Advisories included a worn front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover, corrosion on the offside front inner wing area, slight play in the steering wheel, a minor leak of exhaust gases in the nearside front exhaust, and an imbalance issue with the front brakes.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Mercedes-Benz specialist Waterhouse performed a full service in September 2021 at 119,233 miles, including engine oil and fuel filter, and new wiper rubbers.
• Mercedes-Benz specialist T W Neal Motors performed a full service in July 2020 at 117,880 miles, changing the engine oil and filter.  
• T W Neal Motors also performed a full service in December 2018 at 115,246 miles, when the engine oil and filter, ball joint, brake fluid and rear shock absorbers were replaced. Prior to this, they performed a pre-MOT check and changed the engine oil and filter in December 2017 at 112,937 miles.
• The owner states that prior to his ownership, the car underwent a restoration in January 2019 by Mercedes-Benz specialist The SL Shop, and a new soft top was fitted by Aldridge Trimmings Ltd in December 2019.
• Maintenance work on the suspension was carried out approximately 18 months ago.

Dates and mileage:

• Sep 2021 – 119,233 miles
• Jul 2020 - 117,880 miles
• Dec 2018 - 115,246 miles
• Dec 2017 - 112,937 miles
• Jan 2017 - 109,595 miles
• Nov 2015 - 103,871 miles
• Oct 2014 - 97,016 miles
• Unknown - 90,471 miles
• Nov 2012 - 82,009 miles
• Oct 2006 - 74,997 miles
• Aug 2002 - 50,331 miles
• Mar 2001 - 46,017 miles
• Aug 1999 - 42,339 miles
• Jun 1997 - 37,153 miles
• Apr 1996 - 34,001 miles
• Jun 1994 - 29,684 miles
• Mar 1993 - 23,116 miles
• May 1992 - 20,502 miles
• Apr 1991 - 16,251 miles
• Sep 1989 - 10,871 miles
• Aug 1988 - 15,009 miles
• Nov 1987 - 5,325 miles
• Nov 1986 – 81 miles

SUMMARY

This is a smart example of the sought-after 1987 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL, boasting extensive history, and having been sympathetically restored in 2019. While the most recent MOT test indicates a few minor items needing attention, this is a powerful and stylish cruiser that should make an excellent weekend classic.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.