Produced from 1971 to 1989, the R107 SL-Class had one of the longest production runs of any Mercedes-Benz. It became a symbol of success in the 1980s, appearing frequently in movies and television, which cemented its place in pop culture. The car's reputation for over-engineered durability and classic, understated styling makes it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for a usable classic convertible.
Collectibility is strong across the range, with specific models drawing more interest. The late-production US-market 560 SL, with its 5.5-liter V8 and driver's airbag, is highly sought after for its combination of power and features. Enthusiasts also prize the more powerful, lighter, and cleaner-looking European-spec models, particularly the 500 SL, which wasn't officially sold in the United States.
The market for the R107 is broad and mature, reflecting the huge number of cars produced. While exceptional, low-mileage 560 SLs can bring high prices, the average sale price of around $24,000 shows that good driver-quality examples remain accessible. The key to value is condition and maintenance history, as deferred maintenance can quickly become expensive.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern; inspect the front fenders, floor pans, trunk floor, and rocker panels carefully.
- The automatic climate control system is notoriously complex and costly to repair, so test all heating and A/C functions.
- Check for worn subframe mounts and suspension bushings, which can cause clunks and sloppy handling.
- Verify the condition of both the convertible soft top and the removable hardtop, looking for tears, yellowing, and proper sealing.
- A complete and documented service history is critical, as neglected maintenance on the V8 engines can lead to expensive repairs.
Prices for the R107 SL-Class range from $500 for project cars to over $201,000 for the very best examples.
8,288 Mercedes-Benz R107 SL-Class vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 1311 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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