1980 Mercedes-Benz 500SL Convertible

Description

Beginning with the legendary 300SL 'Gullwing' of the 1950s and spanning no less than six generations and almost as many decades, the Mercedes-Benz SL has remained true to the original concept of a powerful, luxurious two-seater sports car. With the introduction of the 300SL Roadster in 1957, the added versatility of a removable hardtop has been another key ingredient in the recipe for the SL's overwhelming success. Earning high praise when originally launched in April 1971, the W107 SL lasted in production for the next 18 years, convincing evidence indeed that Stuttgart's designers had it right. Nicknamed the “Panzerwagen”, the W107 saw the emphasis firmly on safety and it boasted a padded dashboard, fuel tank relocated to the boot inside the massively rigid bodyshell. The added weight was compensated for by larger and more powerful V8 engines sourced from the S-Class sedans and the new suspension system, with a trailing rear arm replacing the old swing axle, was another major improvement. When the W107 range was revised in 1980 with a range of new all-alloy V8s introduced and the example on offer here, the 500SL, now had a capacity of 4973cc and developed 240 bhp and 298 lb/ft of torque. Driving through a new, more efficient four-speed automatic transmission using a torque converter instead of the older fluid coupling, the 500SL was both quicker than the 450SL it replaced, and more fuel efficient. Further gains in economy were achieved through the additional use of aluminium in the body while the option of anti-lock brakes was another significant development in safety. Externally, apart from the badging the new SLs were distinguished by a new chin spoiler. The W107 range offers the perfect classic roadster experience for those not wanting to compromise on safety or luxury features. They are reliable, beautifully made and still offer equipment levels above most modern cars, with a style only Mercedes-Benz can truly capture.