NICE ORIGINAL MERC, WELL-CARED FOR, 104K ORIGINAL MILES, 3.8L V8, LOADED DRIVER!

Description for Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 1985

Where else are you going to find an A-list German 2-seat roadster with V8 power for so little cash? Let your neighbors think you hit it big with this pretty 1985 Mercedes-Benz 380SL that still drives like the ultimate piece of German engineering from the '80s. Clearly built to last, the R107 SLs were called "der Panzerwagon" by their creators, and now, more than three decades later, it's easy to see why. With all its original bodywork... and paint, this 34-year-old 380SL looks pretty darned good, like catching a glimpse of the still-lovely Raquel Welch and realizing that she hasn't lost a step. The well-proportioned body still looks like a million bucks and the three-pointed star on the nose commands respect from virtually everyone on the road. As I said, there's no major rust or rot thanks to a lifetime in the warm south, and someone obviously loved this car, because the finish has a soft luster that only comes from frequent baths and regular applications of wax. It also helps to start with high-quality paint, and there's no question that Mercedes-Benz quality during this era was second to none. Even the brightwork on the bumpers and around the windows of the hardtop remains bright and shiny. It shows signs of use but also signs of love. That's the car you want. If you need any additional proof that the famous MB-Tex vinyl upholstery in these cars is virtually indestructible, look no further than the tan buckets in this roadster. We have every reason to believe the upholstery is original, and there's not a split seam or a worn corner anywhere to be found. Equally nice door panels show no evidence of even a driver's elbow leaning on the armrest and the carpets show only mild wear that's quite in line with the car's age and mileage. As a convertible, a little discoloration from the sun isn't unexpected, but everything has an all-of-a-piece look that suggests a well-maintained original rather than a piecemeal restoration. Woodgrain appliques on the center stack and console warm it up a bit and are showing their age, but they're some of the only indicators that this car is now more than thirty years old. A newer AM/FM/CD stereo is the lone upgrade inside, because everything else was standard equipment. All SLs included two tops, and with the hardtop in place, this car seals up as well as a modern sedan. And true to form, the trunk is as beautifully upholstered as the rest of the interior. The 3.8 liter V8 was designed to help improve fuel economy but still delivers the kind of effortless performance that made these cars famous as high-speed cruisers. The bubbly SOHC V8 makes wonderful sounds and is remarkably flexible, equally content to burble through traffic or hammer down the autobahn at triple-digit speeds. The clean engine bay has been properly maintained from new, including converting the A/C to R134a refrigerant, so the system is working properly. It starts easily and drives smoothly, although it likes to be warmed up before you really push it, and the 3-speed automatic transmission is a willing partner. The all-independent suspension soaks up bumps but doesn't give up much in terms of handling, and 4-wheel discs were standard so you never feel like you're in over your head. Looks like those chrome wheels were installed in the '90s, but they're flashy enough for the sporty yellow convertible and carry slightly larger than stock 205/65/15 Michelin radials. Enjoy the performance and luxury of this lovely SL roadster, which will make you feel like a movie star every time you drive it.. Call now!