"Introduced early in 1971, this impressive two-seater sports car replaced the 280SL. The body and chassis of the third generation Mercedes-Benz SL was considerably heavier and longer than its predecessor but still showed a resemblance to them. The 3.5 litre, V8 engine underwent slight modifications to those being used on other models and the gear shift 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 and went on to become one of the longest running styles from Mercedes-Benz. A range of engine size were available, one of the more powerful and rarer was the 4.5 litre unit.
Originally delivered new to California in the USA, this example was imported to the UK in 2019. Now presented with a modern grey paintwork and contrasting but original leather trim and matching hardtop. This example has clearly seen some restoration works over the past 18 months by the previous owner which includes fully painting the car and some bespoke trimming coupled to a new rear box on the exhaust and additional sound deadening and carpeting. This restoration was fulfilled by the then owner rather than professionally, but the current vendor states the car runs and drives very well however it would benefit from some further finishing touches as the air conditioning is not currently functioning and there is a crack in the rear hardtop screen. The car is offered with three sets of keys, an alarm and MoT test certificate with the only advisories relating to the US specification lights. In this colourway, this Mercedes is a handsome example and priced at a ‘get in and go’ level not professing to be a garage queen, but a usable enjoyable classic offered without reserve.
Guide Price £9,000 - £14,000

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