Lot 256 - 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL Roadster

In 1986, Mercedes-Benz produced its most powerful SL of the decade to the U.S. in the 560 SL. The car was also the heaviest of the 1971-89 R107 SLs that Mercedes-Benz produced, but the new 5.5-litre V8 engine's 227hp did a fine job of mitigating that fact. Top speed was much improved, from 110 mph in the 380 SL to 130mph, and the car was quicker from a standstill to 60mph by about four full seconds. The engine was much torquier too, which greatly improved the cars' dynamics. Likewise, the car received a new rear suspension and a limited-slip differential to better handle the added torque and power. Mercedes-Benz also added anti-lock brakes, leather upholstery, an alarm system and an air bag all of which better suited the car's $48,000 price tag. The 560 SL sold well with Mercedes-Benz retiring the R107 chassis in 1990, introducing the first all-new SL in 18 years. Today, many enthusiasts gravitate towards the 560 SL as it retains some of the original lines of the pagoda SLs while carrying with it all of the R107's advances.

This highly original example of the Mercedes-Benz 560 SL is believed to have been a one owner car in California until May 2015 when it was purchased by a collector in Germany. This extremely example is one of the last of the 107 designed models and it is believed to have only covered 44.300 miles from new and its condition would indicate that it could be correct. At the time of cataloging, UK registration had been applied for and it is hoped that a new V5C registration document will be available at the sale. Elegantly presented in red with original tan interior, this beautiful 560 SL is supplied with a MoT test certificate which expires in August 2018 and comes with both soft and factory hardtop. A high-quality Mercedes-Benz, ideally suited to open top touring, with nearly all the power amenities as a modern car, yet with the elegance and style of the classic Mercedes-Benz SL.