Automotive Gallery

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-round independent coil-sprung suspension and power-assisted steering as its V8 brethren it proved notably more fuel efficient. Fitted with 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.

Finished in red with black / grey check cloth upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, bodywork and paintwork. While, he further comments that the automatic transmission has "no known faults", the electrical equipment is "all working" and the interior trim looks "original, unmarked". Dating from the final year of R107 production, 'F116 MRA' is said to have had just two previous keepers (both ladies) and to have covered a mere 28,000 miles from new. Riding on correct-type 'flat front' alloys, the 300SL boasts such niceties as its "original first aid kit (still wrapped in plastic), unmarked factory hardtop, Blaupunkt stereo, fire extinguisher, switchable automatic transmission, ABS brakes and headlamp washers / wipers". The past recipient of a waxoyl treatment and sporting a "virtually unused soft-top", this pampered Mercedes-Benz is currently taxed and tested until June 2010 and comes with a service file back to 1999. Unfortunately, the seller has lost the original service booklet. However, he informs us that the previous owner can verify the mileage (though, the car's condition is said to very much speak for itself).

Image and description kindly supplied by H&H Classic Auctions