1989 Mercedes-Benz SL R107 review: Retro Road Test

All cars become classics eventually – even the unexceptional ones – but not all classics are created equal. The ‘R107’ Mercedes-Benz SL is a case in point.

This luxurious grand tourer (we’ll stop short of calling it a sports car) was a cut above the automotive norm when new, and it remains so today. Time only seems to have reinforced its appeal.

The R107 model replaced the iconic W113 ‘Pagoda’ SL in 1971 and became the longest-lived Mercedes-Benz ever. By the time production ceased in 1989, it arguably held classic status even as a new car.

Initially V8-powered, it was later offered with more economical six-cylinder engines. All came with a removable metal hard-top to supplement the manually-folding fabric hood, while the vast majority of buyers opted for an automatic gearbox.

A fixed-roof SLC coupe version was also sold, albeit in much smaller numbers than the convertible.

Silver and gold

The car featured here is one of the final R107s: a 1989 300 SL. Steve Leigh of Essex Classic Car Auctions is clearly a fan: “They’re just so reliable. You could jump in right now and drive across Europe.”

It’s a tempting offer, but Billericay and Basildon will have to suffice. Besides, it has just started raining.

Clearly I watched too much Dallas as a child because, even roof-up in the drizzle, the SL speaks to me of sun-drenched California cool. It isn’t breathtakingly beautiful like a 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ or a Pagoda, but its straight, simple lines are elegantly proportioned.

I love the understated 15-inch alloys and Smoked Silver paintwork of this example, too – the latter glinting gold when it catches the light.

Floats like a boat

Inside, it’s all rather more retro, not least thanks to the beige-and-brown colour combo. If you’ve just stepped out of a new Mercedes-AMG SL, be prepared for a culture-shock; there are no touchscreens or technology here, just an upright, wood-veneered dashboard and flat-cushioned, springy seats.

Also, the large, low-set steering wheel can’t be adjusted, and there’s surprisingly little headroom for those of above-average height. At least those ‘Germanic build quality’ clichés ring true; everything I touch feels weighty and well-made.

The SL – in this 176hp, six-cylinder guise, at least – doesn’t like to be rushed. Its power steering is ponderous, its suspension feels floaty and the whole car leans like a listing ship when cornering.

Oddly, this dynamic ineptitude (at least by today’s standards) forms a large part of its appeal. It encourages you to slow down, retract the roof and take it easy, wafting along on a wave of effortless torque. Few cars are so easy and utterly relaxing to drive.

Buy the best you can

After an hour of subdued, comfortable cruising, I’m rather sold on the idea of an SL. Unfortunately, values have rocketed in recent years: bad luck for me, but great news if you’re looking to invest. “You can find a basket-case R107 for £5,000,” says Steve, “but the best cars can top £50,000.

“Parts are expensive and certain bits of trim – such as the seat fabric – are getting hard to source. So buy the best, most original car you can afford.”

This particular SL had covered 94,500 miles and carried an auction estimate of £20,000-£22,500 when I drove it.

Baby’s got the Benz

What to look for when buying an SL? Steve explains: “Post-1986 cars have galvanised bodywork and are more rust-resistant. Even so, check the sills and wheelarches carefully, and examine the carpets for signs of water leaks.

“Engines are solid, but you’ll want evidence of regular servicing – preferably from a Mercedes-Benz specialist. Make sure the hard-top (as seen fitted here) hasn’t gone missing, too. It should be stamped with the car’s chassis number below the nearside window.”

Lastly, a top tip for investors: this car’s successor, the blockier R129 SL (1989-2002) is now increasing in price. If a good R107 is beyond your budget, it’s a sensible and equally seductive way to enjoy the SL experience – and certainly a classic car created more than equal.

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