LOW OWNERSHIP, SOUTHERN 380SL, EURO-SPEC HEADLIGHTS, LOADED, RUNS & DRIVES GREAT

Description for Mercedes-Benz 300-Series 1983

Don't look now but this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380SL qualifies as an AACA-certified antique. As a result it's a wonderful way to get into the hobby with a car that needs no excuses and can travel cross-country on tour without issues. And there's still nothing like that three-pointed star to let everyone know you've arrived and don't worry we won't tell them how affordable it really is!The R107 roadsters are some of the most durable robust and flat-out fun-to-drive of all late-model Mercedes-Benz products. Oh don't worry there's plenty of luxury car DNA there but it's also descended from the legendary 300SLs of the '50s which means that performance and reliability are built in. From the solid thunk of the doors closing to the precise way the hood latch release pokes out from between the spokes of the grille-mounted star the car is beautifully engineered and built. The dark blue paint was redone about three years ago at a Mercedes dealership so it's quite nice and easily measures up to the standards you'd expect. The trim proportions give it a sporty feeling and there's simply nowhere you can go where this white roadster will look out of place. Of course there's no rust or rot and the car has been in a sunny climate all its life. Additions include Euro-spec headlights that give the SL a markedly different look and a deck lid mounted stop lamp from a later 560SL model which is a good safety feature.Accommodations are first class all the way in the tan interior which is an upscale and elegant combination. The MB-Tex upholstery remains in outstanding condition particularly for a convertible with only light wear visible in the usual spots on the driver's seat bolsters. Carpets are quite nice although there's some discoloration in the rear parcel shelf area which is to be expected and the door panels are equally well preserved. Everything Mercedes-Benz could throw at a car in 1983 was standard on the SL including A/C (blows cold with R134a refrigerant) power windows and locks and cruise control all of which are still fully functional (would you expect anything less from a Mercedes?). This car also features a handsome medium blue folding top and a matching dark blue hardtop as well as a fully finished trunk that's better upholstered than the interiors of lesser cars of the period.Eager to run the 3.8-liter V8 is the epitome of Mercedes-Benz engineering. Reliable smooth and with power delivery akin to an electric motor it's capable of flinging the SL around like a sports car cruising at triple-digit speeds for hours on end and will likely do so forever with just routine maintenance. It has been recently serviced including the all-important timing chain upgrade a new center bearing on the driveshaft and new tie rods on the steering. With a bouncy V8 idle and a wonderful muted exhaust note the SL is always ready and never puts a tire astray with a competent 4-wheel independent suspension and disc brakes all around. The underside is so clean there's just no doubt that this car has spent its life in a warm climate so no worries about tin worm. Handsome MB alloys wear recent 205/70/14 blackwall radials that ride and handle beautifully.Top-end luxury doesn't have to cost a fortune and this SL is ready to enjoy. Call today!