IN THE GARAGE: 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL

THE PINNACLE OF AN AUTOMOTIVE ICON For most of the 70s and 80s, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) was the embodiment of a lifestyle that evoked achieving a certain status in life while still being able to enjoy it. They were the cars of the stars and the country club set. They were sporty without being sports cars, with refined elegance and graceful performance. Over its remarkable 18-year run, the 107 SL never lost any of its appeal and many would agree that it hasn’t to this day. Its final iteration, between 1986 and 1989, was the 560 SL. The 560 SL was in response to US customers who sought performance that was comparable to the European market 500 SL (in the early 80s, only the 155-hp 380 SL was available though US dealers). Not since the pre-emissions 350 and 450 SL of 1972 and 1973 had a US-market SL eclipsed 200 horsepower. Furthermore, a significant increase in torque made it the most drivable SL ever. Today, the 560 SL’s enduring caché combined with modest prices make it a perfect example of “look rich cheap.” As such, they’ve held up well in a soft economy and are beginning to climb as market conditions improve.

OVERALL CONDITION

Because the cars were so drivable, it stands to reason that many 560 SLs were driven. And driven. And driven. While it’s true that 560 SLs—like any Mercedes-Benz—have legendary durability, finding one with less than 100K miles is somewhat rare. The one listed here is not only a low-mileage example, with less than 82,500 documented miles, but retains its production line form and has excellent owner history. Its current owner inherited the car from his daughter-in-law who purchased the car from its original owner in 1995. All of the quintessential 560 SL checklist items are 100% complete:

• It has both tops
• It has the original Becker Grand Prix audio system
• It has a complete set of manuals
• It has a an up-to-date, stamped maintenance book
• It matches its data card

The car is presented in a classic combination of Arctic White with blue leather and dark blue folding top. Gaps are perfect (many higher mileage and even some lower mileage SLs were subject to a lot of body flex, which in time compromised fit). The original top is in perfect condition with little evidence of ever being used. Exterior canvas and plastic window are as new. Brightwork is a mirror finish with no pitting. Original glass is very good to excellent all the way around. Mechanically, it’s a strong, smooth running motor. There are no leaks, no smoke and no unusual smells. Shifting is clean and silky. There’s none of the lurching that is typical of more tired cars. Braking is superb, sure and straight. The interior is in near perfect condition. Seats are firm with very little wear on the leather. The wood retains a deep polish and shows no dryness. Carpets are supple and fresh. All instruments work, including the clock. The trunk is clean with excellent fit and finish. It even smells new. The headliners on both the hard and soft tops are clean with no tears or other blemishes and no yellowing. With either top—up or down—it’s a car that looks as good as it drives.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS

Driving an R107 never ceases to elicit images of rolling through tree-lined country roads or meeting friends for lunch at the yacht club. The 560 SL—especially one in this condition—is still perfectly at home in just about any environment where style and grace meet suave and sexy. The first thing you’ll notice is the comfort. Seats are firm and supportive yet comfortable enough for all-day touring. Next you’ll grab the large, leather-wrapped steering wheel and turn the key as the 5.5 liter V8 comes to life. Put the car in drive and the car accelerates with steady power, which is considerable by 1989 standards. It’s not neck-snapping by any means but plenty strong with a wide power band for excellent drivability at moderate sppeds. The suspension is solid. There is no cowl or scuttle shake over obstructions like railroad tracks. There are no rattles or squeaks. Even with the top down, the car is relatively quiet, or quiet enough to enjoy the original Becker Grand Prix, which works flawlessly. Even though many would stop short of calling this a true sports car, it has enough sporting characteristics to call it fun to drive. Its handling is spirited with excellent balance. Power and especially torque are on hand when you need it while the brakes grip well when you don’t. And of course there’s little substitute for the pure joy of top-down motoring.