Description
26th Oct, 2024 10:00
The October 2024 Auction
1988 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Stunning example of the Mercedes SL
Estimate
£19, 000 - £21, 000
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: F785JAT
Chassis: WDB1070412A087582
Odometer: 90, 000
Transmission: Automatic
MOT: August 2025
Drives and presents very well
UK supplied, right-hand-drive example
Pleasing colour combination
Supplied with the original stamped service book
Offered with both hard and soft-tops
The ultimate six-cylinder derivative of Mercedes-Benz's renowned R107-series, the 300SL was introduced at the September 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show. Equipped with Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection, its in-line SOHC M103 2962cc engine developed some 177bhp and 188lbft of torque (outputs sufficient for a reputed 125mph top speed). Sharing the same two-door monocoque bodyshell, all-around independent coil-sprung suspension, and power-assisted steering as its V8 brethren it proved notably more fuel efficient. Fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission as standard, it further benefited from improved anti-corrosion treatment and ABS brakes. Only in production between 1985 and 1989, just 13, 443 300SLs are thought to have been despatched worldwide with very few left in the UK, especially in this condition.
Manufactured in 1989, the 300 SL on offer was supplied new to the UK, being dispatched new through Gerard Mann Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham to the first owner on the 1st of August that year. Fitted with the aforementioned SOHC 2962cc engine mated to the automatic transmission, the R107 is finished in Smoke Silver with Pebble leather interior upholstery, as well as a Dark Brown soft-top and a factory hard-top. In long-term previous ownership (from 1998 until 2014), ‘F785JAT’ has been very well maintained throughout its life and comes with a fresh MOT and a recent service.
Specified from new with optional extras including an outside temperature monitor, rear seats, paintwork preservation, heated rear window, and fire extinguisher, the 300 SL has been subject to approximately £1, 000 worth of improvement in preparation for sale. ‘F785JAT’ is offered with a history file that includes the handbook, service guide, and original stamped service book which displays 26 entries (many from Mercedes-Benz main dealers). Further offered with a collection of invoices dating back to 2006, as well as a current MOT certificate until August 2025, this represents a great opportunity to buy into the Mercedes SL family and enjoy the car for what it is and rest in the knowledge that you have an appreciating asset that can be used every day if you wish.