1978 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL

This eye catching 350SL is a UK specification car, originally supplied new in June 1978 and registered for the first time at that point. The under bonnet plate suggests the R107’s original colour was Icon Gold (419) with a change to its current non-Mercedes blue shade registered in 1999. This later shade appears to possibly be a BMW colour with its closest Mercedes equivalent probably being Midnight Blue (904).

This R107 went on to be enjoyed by a further seven keepers before current owner, James, acquired the SL as a promising running project in September of this year. One prominent attribute of this example is its moderate original mileage for a model so often synonymous with high mileages. Judging by its MoT history, this Mercedes has spent some extended periods not in use which helps explain the impressively low mileage. Records suggest that only a couple of hundred miles have been covered since its MoT in 2009.

This Mercedes-Benz SL exhibits a slightly unorthodox presentation considering its non-marque livery, combined with a silver hard top and chromed wheel arch finishers. It makes for a distinctive persona and one which is suggestive of North American iterations of this esteemed model. That 1999 respray looks lustrous enough from a few paces but close inspection will reveal a finish not up to Stuttgart’s factory standards, perhaps. There are number of areas of running and an overly thick application as well as masking tape marks, overspray and some pitting on most of the horizontally orientated panels. Our team report quite a number of minor dents and scratches across the bodywork.

The silver finished hard top is currently fixed in place due to the rear latches being seized in place following an extended period of lack of use. As a result we are unable to confirm the colour, condition, or even existence of the underlying hood. The paintwork on the hard top appears more consistent with a factory standard of finish, however. The wheel arches beneath the chrome finishers have been inspected by our team who report that the underlying bodywork is “lightly corroded.” Cabin glass and light lenses all look to be original and in good order as do the various areas of brightwork. 

On the plus side, however, the 15-inch “Mexican Hat” alloys look to be in good order, possibly having benefitted from a more recent refurbishment. A matching set of Uniroyal tyres in a 205/65 15-inch is fitted. These appear to retain plenty of tread but may be in excess of 10-years old.

The R107’s cabin is finished in a lesser seen grey hue. The seat covers seem to be in good condition and may be later replacements featuring darker piping to their extremities. The familiar “eared” headrests are present and this example features a token rear bench which is identically trimmed and in an equally good condition. Door cards are finished predominantly in grey and feature inset panels of Mercedes-Benz perforated substrate. Generous side pockets provide ample storage for your Werther’s Originals and the like. 

The grey carpets appear to be in fine fettle considering the age of the car and are currently protected by heavy duty, black carpet over mats.  A lift of the carpets exhibits solid looking floor panels even if the spray insulation has crazed and deteriorated a little.

The dash is topped with black, deformable safety foam, which is in good original condition and period looking Momo Astra wooden, four spoke steering wheel is fitted. A panel of wood veneer dissects the dash from side to side. The large, clear instrument binnacle houses a central speedometer, a clock, and a multi-function dial. The car is fitted with a more modern head unit with USB connectivity. There are some areas of wear and tear noted including some peeling veneers and lose speaker covers. Our consignment team note that the car arrived with us with damp carpets and an accompanying fusty aroma. We have done our best to give the interior an airing whilst it has been in our care.

The commodious boot is well trimmed in original looking black carpet and a full sized spare alloy wheel is present, together with original jack and warning triangle.

This 1978 model features the erstwhile M116 V8 engine. This 3,498cc unit is a single overhead camshaft unit with 2 valves per cylinder. Original power output was quoted at around 200bhp and 211 lb-ft of torque. This was sufficient for a 130mph plus top speed and a 0-60mph time in the mid eight-second region. Pretty competitive for the time. The M116 combined with the four speed automatic transmission is renowned for its smooth torque delivery, reliability, and longevity, making the 350 SL one of the most desirable R107 models.

The engine bay exhibits the original Mercedes-Benz data plates, detailing the various specification codes, the VIN and the permitted vehicle weights. It appears to be in a good overall condition other than some noticeable paint runs on the inner panels.

The underside of the car appears to be well undersealed to preserve and promote its longevity. This gives it a presentation and condition in keeping with its age and mileage. The most recent MoT does make mention of filler in this area.It is also worth noting that the battery struggles to hold charge so we would advise getting a new battery fitted.

This 350SL comes with a decidedly modest amount of provenance providing paperwork. The current V5 and hard copy MoT are included. The later includes a few advisories but is valid until September 2026. 

It is worth noting that the SL is over 40-years old and, hence, likely eligible for registration as an Historic Vehicle. This would render the car MoT exempt and zero rated for road tax in the UK.

The Mercedes-Benz SL cars have long been sought-after mainstays of the premium end of the classic car market. They offer a hard to match combination of style, efficiency and engineering integrity appealing to the enthusiast who considers both matters of the heart and the head. That’s a rare commodity and has helped launch earlier SL model prices into the stratosphere.  The R107 offers the same rare blend of attributes but with the significant advantage of being available at a much more attainable price point. This predominantly being a product of being a younger car produced in higher volumes rather than being any less appealing or able than its illustrious forebears. 

This example should offer an impressive level of value for money being a running project car rather than a pristine garage queen with no potential for improvement. It is this car’s impressively modest original mileage, however, that provides a desirable foundation on which to build. None of the fettling required really impacts the use and enjoyment of the car and, as such, it should prove an exciting and worthwhile candidate for some further improvement. 

We expect the virtual hammer will fall somewhere between £6,000 and £10,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at THE MARKET, HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.