Mercedes-Benz SL W198 - Classic cars for sale

The Mercedes-Benz R107 SL holds a distinction that no other Mercedes road car can claim: an 18-year production run, from 1971 to 1989, making it the longest-running model in the company's history. That longevity was not complacency. Mercedes engineers refined the R107 continuously - updating engines, safety equipment, interior trim, and emissions compliance - while the fundamental character of the car remained exactly right. The R107 was a grand tourer in the truest sense: comfortable enough for a continent, composed enough for the autobahn, and elegant enough for the Côte d'Azur.

The R107 succeeded the W113 "Pagoda" - itself now a six-figure collector car - and established a template for the SL that persists to this day: a two-seat roadster with a removable hardtop, a choice of inline-six or V8 engines, and the full weight of Mercedes-Benz engineering behind every component. Approximately 237,287 were produced, making the R107 one of the most successful sports cars Mercedes has ever built.

Choosing your R107

The engine choice defines the character. The 280SL (1974-1985, inline-six, 185 PS) is the lightest and most European in feel - nimble, refined, and the choice of purists. The 350SL (1971-1980, 3.5 V8, 200 PS) and 450SL (1973-1980, 4.5 V8, 225 PS) introduced V8 smoothness and effortless cruising. The 500SL (1980-1989, 5.0 V8, 240 PS) is widely regarded as the sweet spot: the most refined engine in the range, paired with the improved interior of the later production years. The 560SL (1986-1989, 5.6 V8, 300 PS) is the ultimate specification - but was sold almost exclusively in the US and Australian markets, meaning European examples are typically reimports with lower-compression engines and emission controls that slightly reduce the appeal.

A critical distinction for European buyers: Euro-spec cars run higher compression ratios, produce more power, and lack the