1988 MERCEDES-BENZ (R107) 300SL

This 1988 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (R107) is an elegant modern classic roadster, presented in good order, and with style and charm in spades. It is powered by a 3.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-six cylinder engine producing up to 187bhp, coupled with a smooth automatic transmission. The odometer currently indicates 125,596 miles from new.

First registered in September 1988, this right-hand-drive 300SL has evidently been well maintained throughout its life, and is now offered for sale by the trade.

This 300SL’s galvanised body is reported to be in very good condition, with the vendor stating that it is free of rust. The bulkhead has also been professionally treated with rust protection. The blue paint finish is in good order, with just a few age-related blemishes noted by the vendor. Its soft top window operates as it should, though does have a small crack in the rear window, which is a common issue with SLs of this age. However, the car also comes with a factory colour-coded hardtop roof. The vehicle rides on the 15-inch alloy wheels, which have a few minor scratches and nicks, but which are generally sound.

Moving inside, the interior condition has been described by the owner as excellent, especially for its age and mileage. It is trimmed in blue leather with perforated centre panels in the seats, and these are evidently in good order, with just some age-related creasing and slight discolouration. This SL comes with the factory air-conditioning system, though the vendor notes it is not currently working. The dashboard features the original walnut trims, and the switches and driver controls all present in good order. Some minor damage is visible to the seal around the A-pillar, just above the driver’s door hinges.

In June 2020, this SL received new rear brake pads, discs and hoses, as well as a brake fluid service, carried out by Ilkeston Service and Repair Centre. Meanwhile, the last full service was undertaken at 120,979 miles, where technicians at marque specialist MB Nottingham replaced the engine oil, filter and brake fluid.

The most recent MOT test was on 25 August 2020 at 125,552 miles, which resulted in a pass with two advisories to monitor a worn offside front sub-frame pin and a non-excessive oil leak. The car has recently been fitted with four new Avon tyres in correct fitment 205/65/R15 all round.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original Mercedes-Benz handbooks, along with an extensive history record, which includes 19 service stamps and 28 MOT certificates.

This Mercedes-Benz 300SL is a sleek and stylish convertible, which the vendor states “starts and runs like clockwork”. It remains highly original, and is an eminently usable example of this modern classic. Whether joining a collection of Mercedes-Benz models with a die-hard enthusiast, or finding a new home where it is used for occasional weekend jaunts, this 300SL is a smart cruiser that is sure to delight its next owner.

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 through HPI checks and MOT history where available. 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. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.