"Introduced early in 1971, this impressive two-seater sports car replaced the 280 SL. The body and chassis of the 3rd generation SL was considerably heavier and longer than its predecessor, but still showed a slight resemblance to them. The front and rear axles were similar to those of the 200-250 models, with independent wheel suspension using double wishbones and anti-drive control at the front and a diagonal swing axle at the rear. A four-speed automatic transmission was available as an option. The 3.5 litre V8 engine underwent slight modifications to those being used on other models and the gear lever was placed on the floor in the centre of the car. The standard transmission provided a top speed of 130mph and a very respectable 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds. As with the previous generation SL's, the vehicle came as an open roadster with removable hardtop roof. The R107 body shape went on to become one of the longest running styles from Mercedes-Benz, remaining in production until 1989 with some 13 variants during that time. Even by today's standards for sports cars the 350 SL's spacious cockpit looks excellent with great ergonomics.
Presented in red coachwork with black trim, this early example boasts the desirable 3.5 litre V8 engine. Owned by our vendor for summer tours in 2022, he has recently completed maintenance works such as new timing chain, injector seals, shock absorbers and various suspension bushes, coupled with a new MoT test certificate valid until July 2023. We believe this example was repainted circa ten years ago. The vendor states that the bulkhead chambers are solid and water tight and the sills are very solid. Offered without a service history but with a few invoices for maintenance and MoT test certificates, many of which go back to the 1970s.
Guide Price £10,000 - £15,000
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