"These fabulous and popular models were launched at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1985. The V8 engined 420SL convertible retained its predecessor’s long-running Type 107 bodyshell which was virtually unchanged and replaced the outgoing 380SL model. Its power unit was an enlarged and improved version of the existing 3.8 litre overhead cam Type M116 V8. The running gear followed Mercedes-Benz’s established pattern, comprising independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes, while a new five-speed manual gearbox was offered alongside the existing four-speed automatic transmission. A mere 2,148 examples of this luxuriously equipped model were made between 1985 and 1989.
First registered on 1st January 1987, this R107 model 420SL looks every inch the 1980’s icon it became. Finished in silver metallic paintwork, this car benefits from contrasting black leather with contrasting houndstooth chequered inserts. Both the metallic paint and a trim were significant cost factory options which, accompanied by the addition of a hardtop, cruise control and heated seats, made D838 KNW an expensive car when it was new.
Contained within the history file is an original leather book pack containing an owner’s manual, and a service book which boasts 16 service stamps, together with a comprehensive folder of invoices, receipts and MoT’s dating back to 1991. This attractive four owner SL is offered to auction with a V5C registration document and an MoT test certificate valid until October 2021. The power of the 4.2 litre V8 engine was impressive for the late 1980’s and is still plenty enough for touring by today’s standards. With such a specification and with low mileage for the year, this is certainly an R107 that would grace many a collection."