Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Sold

1987 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (R107)

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£18,224

  • Mileage~103,886 on clock
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine3.0-Litre
  • LocationHassocks, West Sussex

SOLD

1987 Mercedes-Benz 300SL (R107)

Register interest for similar cars

Introduction

Alan Stuart
Professional Consigner and Photographer

A beautifully maintained late-model R107, this 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL has remained within the same family for almost all of its life.

The R107 SL was produced from 1971 until 1989, making it one of Mercedes-Benz’s longest-running model series. The range was extensively modernised in 1985, introducing revised styling, improved front suspension, and a new selection of engines.

The 300SL formed part of this final generation and was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s smooth 3.0-litre straight-six engine. Combining elegant roadster styling with refined performance and excellent long-distance comfort, it remains one of the most usable and desirable versions of the R107.

Peter purchased this example from his father-in-law in 2001, although the car is understood to have remained within the family for almost all of its life. It has been serviced annually, carefully maintained, and benefited from restoration work in 2014.

This listing was written from information supplied by Alan after meeting Peter the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I’ve owned the Mercedes since 2001, but it has been part of the family for almost all of its life. It has always been well looked after, but it simply isn’t getting the use it deserves anymore.

Peter purchased the 300SL from his father-in-law in 2001, although his connection with the Mercedes stretches back considerably further. The car has effectively remained within the extended family for almost all of its life, giving Peter an excellent understanding of its history.

Throughout his ownership, Peter has continued to maintain the car carefully, having it serviced every year and commissioning restoration work in 2014. The result is a well-presented and enjoyable example that reflects its long-term family ownership.

After more than two decades with the Mercedes, Peter has decided the time is right to find it a new home. The car is no longer being used as often as it should be, and he would rather see someone else enjoy it.

Peter would be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Peter
Vehicle Owner

Peter saved £3,240* when they
sold their Mercedes with us.

SELLING MADE EASY

  • We'll take the photos & create the listing.
  • We'll market it to our 62K buyers & online.
  • You'll keep your car until it's paid for.
 

PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS

  • They can fully review our cars online.
  • They can buy on our trusted platform.
  • They're able to buy without leaving home.

GET YOUR VALUATION

Exterior

The silver paintwork, generous chrome detailing, and classic R107 proportions combine to create an extremely elegant roadster.

Wheels and Tyres

The later-style 15-hole Mercedes-Benz alloy wheels suit the car perfectly, and help the car retain its correct period appearance.

All four wheels present well overall, with only light age-related marks visible upon closer inspection. The tyres also appear in good visual condition, although we always recommend reviewing the detailed photographs and checking their age before regular use.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

The bodywork presents very well and reflects the care the Mercedes has received throughout Peter’s ownership.

The panel gaps and shut lines appear even throughout, with the bonnet, doors, and boot aligning nicely. The car’s straight profile and clean body lines are particularly noticeable when viewed from the side.

We did note a very small area of corrosion on the driver’s-side frame. This is barely noticeable but has been highlighted for transparency and photographed for buyers to assess.

The removable hardtop is included with the car. It presents well overall, although there are a few small marks and minor dents visible upon closer inspection.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

Finished in a timeless silver, the paintwork presents to a very good standard and suits the elegant shape of the R107 perfectly.

The colour appears consistent across the panels, with an attractive gloss and no obvious mismatched areas noted during our visit. Restoration work was carried out in 2014, and the quality of the exterior presentation remains evident today.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The generous chrome detailing is an important part of the R107’s appearance and presents well across the bumpers, grille, window surrounds, and exterior trim.

The light units, lenses, and badging also appear smart, with the prominent Mercedes-Benz grille and three-pointed star creating an unmistakable front end.

The glass appears clear, while the removable hardtop gives the next owner the option of enclosed motoring during the colder months.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

image

Interior

The blue checked upholstery gives this 300SL a distinctive cabin that feels both luxurious and wonderfully period.

Seats and Carpets

The seats combine blue checked fabric centres with coordinated dark-blue bolsters, and present extremely well for their age. They retain their shape nicely and create a comfortable, inviting place to spend time.

We noted a small mark on the driver’s seat, but this does little to detract from the excellent overall presentation.

The matching door cards, rear trim and blue carpeting continue the colour scheme throughout the cabin and all appear to have been carefully preserved.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard retains the clean, functional layout associated with the R107, combining clear VDO instrumentation with attractive wood veneer across the centre console.

The instruments are clearly presented, and the odometer indicated approximately 103,886 miles during our visit. The dashboard and surrounding trim remain in good overall condition, with only light age-related wear visible.

A more modern head unit is currently fitted. Importantly, the original head unit is also included with the sale, allowing the next owner to return the audio system to its original appearance if desired.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The Mercedes-Benz steering wheel presents well and remains in keeping with the rest of the cabin.

The automatic gear selector is housed within the wood-trimmed centre console and feels appropriately solid and straightforward to operate. Together, the steering wheel and selector contribute to the relaxed grand-touring character of the 300SL.

image

Mechanics

Powered by Mercedes-Benz’s smooth 3.0-litre straight-six engine, this late R107 offers effortless and refined classic motoring.

Engine and Gearbox

The 3.0-litre M103 straight-six engine is paired with an automatic gearbox, a combination well suited to the relaxed and refined character of the SL.

Peter reports that the engine runs very well, delivering its power smoothly without any known issues. The automatic gearbox also operates as it should, moving through the gears cleanly and comfortably.

The engine bay has an honest and largely original appearance. The car has been serviced every year throughout Peter’s ownership, helping to keep it mechanically reliable and ready to enjoy.

Please watch the mechanical and on-the-road videos to see the Mercedes starting, running and driving, along with a closer look around the engine bay and underside.

image

Suspension and Brakes

Peter reports no known issues with the suspension, steering, or braking systems.

During the drive, there were no unwanted knocks or noises from the suspension, while the steering felt composed and the brakes brought the car to a stop confidently.

Overall, the Mercedes felt settled and comfortable on the road, performing as a well-maintained R107 should.

image

The Drive

The 300SL is ideally suited to relaxed, open-top journeys, combining smooth straight-six power with a comfortable ride and reassuring road manners.

Out on the road, the engine delivered its power smoothly, with the automatic gearbox complementing the refined nature of the car. The steering, suspension, and brakes all performed without concern, and we noticed no unwanted noises during the journey.

Whether enjoyed with the roof removed on a warm summer day or with the hardtop fitted for longer journeys, the R107 remains an elegant and highly usable classic.

image

Electrics and Other

A modern head unit is currently fitted, while the original unit is included with the sale.

No significant electrical concerns were raised by Peter during our visit.

image

History and Paperwork

Long-term family ownership, annual servicing, and restoration work in 2014 make this an especially appealing example.

Peter purchased the Mercedes from his father-in-law in 2001, although the car had already been connected to the family for many years beforehand. As a result, it has effectively remained within the same extended family for almost all of its life.

Throughout Peter’s ownership, this 300SL has been serviced every year and maintained with the intention of preserving its condition and reliability. Restoration work was also undertaken in 2014, helping produce the smart exterior presentation seen today.

The original head unit accompanies the car, along with its removable hardtop. Any supporting invoices, servicing records and restoration documentation are shown within the paperwork gallery for buyers to review.

After more than two decades of ownership, Peter is only selling because the Mercedes is no longer getting the use it deserves. This represents a lovely opportunity to acquire an elegant, late-model R107 with a particularly strong family connection and a clear history of regular care.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
02/07/2026 MOT 103,694
01/07/2025 MOT 103,491
26/06/2024 MOT 103,189
09/06/2023 MOT 103,102
13/06/2022 MOT 102,953
01/06/2021 MOT 101,812
08/06/2020 MOT 101,314
16/04/2019 MOT 100,919
27/03/2018 MOT 100,440
11/04/2017 MOT 100,075
02/02/2016 MOT 99,922
10/02/2015 MOT 99,547
04/02/2014 MOT 99,448
10/01/2013 MOT 99,392
16/01/2012 MOT 99,343
15/01/2011 MOT 97,881
21/12/2009 MOT 95,515
12/12/2008 MOT 93,820
31/12/2007 MOT 91,410
12/12/2006 MOT 87,026
30/12/2005 MOT 83,384
26/04/2004 Service 76,044
05/11/2002 Service 67,768
31/09/1999 Service 56,638
06/10/1998 Service 54,379
07/07/1997 Service 48,237
06/09/1995 Service 41,629
07/12/1993 Service 34,904
22/07/1992 Service 30,071
15/05/1991 Service 25,476
24/04/1990 Service 18,716
15/05/1989 Service 12,083
09/08/1988 Service 6,693
01/07/1987 Service 1,413
02/03/1987 Service 601
Key Details
  • Year1987
  • Model300SL
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Reg. Date06.01.1987
  • CC2962
  • Mileage~103,886 on clock
  • HistoryYes
  • ColourSilver
  • Interior ColourBlue
  • Interior TrimLeather/Cloth
  • Chassis #WDB1070412A057650
  • Engine #10398222004099
  • RestoredYes - 2014
  • MOTYes, exp: 01.07.2027
  • HPi ClearYes - all clear
  • Former Keepers2
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned24 Years, 2 months
  • Key FeatureLong, single-family ownership, extensive service history, 2014 restoration.
  • Vehicle RegistrationD412 YWV
  • Auction ID3919







Vehicle Sold

Register your interest for similar cars.

This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

I WANT ONE
Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
29 Comments
simonx
simonx
4 days ago

Hello Peter
Have you been able to look at the bulk heads to see what shape they are in.
If not would somebody be able to send pictures of the internal part of the bulk heads please. That would be amazing
Regards
Simon

simonx
simonx
  PeterR107
3 days ago

Hi peter
its under the bonnet near the windscreen were the air inlets are, there is a cover to unscrew sand you can see the chamber of the main bulk head.
i have a link below so you can see from a video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CylxCqKDF4

see if there is any rust around there that would be great

regards

simon
i am very interested in you car just so you know!

ColinB
ColinB
Admin
  PeterR107
3 days ago

Hi Simon,

You can view the 3 photos Peter sent over starting here:

https://www.tradeclassics.com/auctions/mercedes/1987-mercedes-benz-300sl-r107/#gallery5-84

Thanks,
Colin.

Ash00036
Ash00036
5 days ago

Could you please provide details of exactly what was included in the 2014 restoration, particularly any welding or replacement of the sills, floor pans, chassis/frame sections, jacking points and inner wings? Do you have invoices/photos from the restoration?

Davy
Davy
6 days ago

Hi Peter
Could you please tell me if the car is
Ulez excempt
Many thanks

helmemelvin
helmemelvin
7 days ago

Hi Peter
The car looks very good but I am a little concerned re the welding which has taken place which might suggest that the car has not been garaged.Has anyone checked the bulkhead for corrosion

atherstone
atherstone
9 days ago

Hi Peter are there any oil leaks from Engine, Gearbox or Rear Axle.

atherstone
atherstone
9 days ago

Hi Peter, has the car ever had a hard top, is so is it being sold with the car.

DoubleMaxim
DoubleMaxim
10 days ago

Hi Peter,
Sorry for asking another question but I’ve just seen picture 29 of the interior photos & I’m concerned about the patch of rust/bubbling at the base below the door hinges

Can you tell whether the steel is solid or perforated?

Many thanks
Mick

DoubleMaxim
DoubleMaxim
12 days ago

Hi,
Could you please describe the size of the rust patch in the spare tyre well ,
Many thanks

GGardiner
GGardiner
12 days ago

Hi, did car have a new speedo fitted in 1994, as seems mileage in 1993 was 96,214, but in 1995 it was only 5,818. Many thanks

GGardiner
GGardiner
  PeterR107
12 days ago

Thank you, I can see now where I was going wrong

DoubleMaxim
DoubleMaxim
15 days ago

Hi
Could you please confirm whether your r107 has k-jetronic or carburettors?
Thanks

DoubleMaxim
DoubleMaxim
  PeterR107
14 days ago

Many thanks for your reply
I only asked because it was mentioned in the mechanical video

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Hassocks, West Sussex

Delivery Calculator


Thank You


Form Submitted

Your request has been submitted successfully and we'll keep you updated.