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Curated Auction

1983 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (R107)

At a Glance

Modest Mileage | Recent Service | Nicely Presented | Hardtop | Low Reserve

  • Mileage~55,991 on clock
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine2.7-litre
  • LocationStockport

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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HRS
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SEC
CURRENT BID£7,750
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£7,750

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Video #2

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

The quintessential 1980s cruiser, bringing together open-top elegance with a smooth, inline-six engine.

Mercedes-Benz has a reputation for comfortable touring cars, which was well established prior to the R107 SL making its first appearance in 1972. The brand's virtues were strengthened by the SL's ingrained quality, ease of use and mechanical hardiness. All this has made it one of the easiest classic tourers to own today. Robust engineering and durable materials go a long way towards making the SL a safe choice for those who like to travel in style without the uncompromising nature of other open-top classics of the era.

Powered by the surprisingly frugal yet flexible 2.7-litre straight-six engine, the car can still hold its own on modern roads. With decent accommodation, a hardtop roof included, and excellent parts availability, the SL continues to flourish in popularity.

Coming from almost 3.5 years with our vendor, this well-presented and modest mileage example comes to the market having just received a fresh MOT and service – ready for the next lucky custodian to jump in and enjoy in this fantastic weather.

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

Secure Auctions

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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.

Video #2

Meet the owner

Being handed three cars was a pleasure to take ownership of, but storage has been a challenge for me.

In 2023, Chris had three cars passed down to him from a family member, which he has enjoyed over the past three years. As you can see from the mileage history, usage hasn’t been a tremendous amount, with this particular 280 SL covering just ~300 miles in the three years.

Whilst they have been an absolute pleasure to own, the lack of use and recent storage is what’s leading to the sale of the classic Mercedes-Benz.

Chris will be happy to answer any questions in the comment section below.

Chris
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Sharp, straight lines and the classic 'Champagne Metallic' colour – could you get any more '80s.

Wheels and Tyres

The 14" ‘Mexican Hat’ alloy wheels are in great condition, with no obvious signs of corrosion to the faces - there is also a matching spare wheel.

The tyres are a matching set, which all have plenty of tread remaining.

Please take the 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

Walking around the 280 SL, the bodywork is in great shape, with no dings or dents spotted, and the panels appear to have an equal gap.

There are a couple of minor age-related blisters in places, but these are minimal and don’t appear to have broken through the paint.

The matching hardtop is present and is in good condition, with no damage.

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

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Paint

Finished in the classic colour of 'Champagne Metallic', the car presents well, but there are some age-related blemishes. The 280 SL has received some paint in the past to freshen it up. There is a very slight shade difference to the boot lid and on the passenger side below the swage line. There is also some paint damage to the top of the passenger-side wing.

The images are taken from a range of angles to show the car as you would see it in person, so please take the time to fully assess the high-resolution photos and videos before forming your own opinion of the paintwork.

image

Glass and Trim

All of the windows look to be in good condition, with just some light age-related marks and a small chip noted as an advisory on the windscreen, but not affecting vision. The electric windows are also working correctly.

The brown fabric roof is in great condition, with no damage to the fabric - there are a couple of very small splits in the plastic corner windows.

The headlights, fog lights and indicators are in good order, with no damage to the lenses. The rear lights are also free from damage.

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

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Continuing the true '80s look is a gold check fabric and vinyl interior, which complements the exterior perfectly.

Seats and Carpets

The check fabric and vinyl seats are a classic finish for the R107-era Mercedes. There is some wear to the fabric base of the driver’s seat, however, the passenger seat is in excellent condition.

Generally, the door cards are in good order, apart from a couple of minor splits on the driver’s side. Throughout the cabin and boot area, the carpets are clean and tidy, with no signs of excessive wear.

image

Dashboard

The simple 80s-styled dashboard layout is free from any splits or cracks and presents well. The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows just ~55,991 miles have been covered, at the time of our visit.

The wooden trim is free from damage and also has no crazing to the lacquered finish.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The four-spoke factory steering wheel is in good shape, with minimal signs of use and age.

The gear lever is also in good order, having covered very little mileage for the age of the SL.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The reliable 2.7-litre straight-six engine is a fantastic powerhouse for the SL.

Engine and Gearbox

From cold, the Mercedes fired up without hesitation and runs superbly, with no issues reported by Chris. A week prior to us photographing the car, it was taken for a service.

Fitted with an automatic gearbox, the changes are smooth, and the car pulls strongly through the range, with no untoward noises.

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Suspension and Brakes

Out in the car, the ride is smooth. Especially where we were located, there were lots of speed bumps, which the Mercedes went over with ease, with no knocks or bangs from either corner.

Having recently passed an MOT test, the brakes have been given a clean bill of health, with no problems reported.

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The Drive

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (R107) is a wonderfully relaxed car to drive, with a smooth, torquey straight-six, light steering and a beautifully composed ride. On the road, it feels solid and substantial, settling you into a comfortable cruising pace to enjoy the engine’s effortless character. The automatic gearbox suits it particularly well, while the long bonnet, low seating position and classic Mercedes interior complete a classic Mercedes package.

image

Electrics and Other

Looking across the dashboard, the switches are all in good condition, with no wear to the lettering. The heater controls are also in good order, with no signs of age.

For a modern touch, a Blaupunkt Valencia CD MP3 head unit has been fitted.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

Regularly taken for an MOT, the car has been in use regularly, albeit a very small amount.

The main part of the history file for the Mercedes is a large collection of MOT certificates, which show the regular use. There are also some invoices for work carried out and services completed. The owner’s manual is present, along with two sets of keys and two alarm/immobiliser key fobs.

The golden era of Mercedes-Benz, before the car became electronically advanced, the R107 platform is a true icon, of which nice, low-mileage examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including photo ID and V5 verification, as well as a history check on the vehicle. This is a professional HPI check that will highlight if the car has previously been stolen, recorded as being involved in an accident or has any outstanding finance. Please note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We’ve summarised our own view of the car based on information provided by the seller; however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video each car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own assessment from the comfort of your home. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are also welcomed on all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a suitable time; we just need to speak to you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car, just like at a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
04.08.2026 MOT/Service 55,986
05.09.2023 MOT 55,847
10.09.2022 MOT 55,713
08.07.2020 MOT/Service 55,621
18.04.2019 MOT 55,585
05.05.2018 MOT/Service 55,478
12.04.2017 MOT 55,433
08.04.2016 MOT 55,189
08.04.2015 MOT 54,930
22.04.2014 MOT 54,692
08.04.2013 MOT 54,631
19.04.2012 MOT 54,383
13.04.2011 MOT 54,175
16.04.2010 MOT 54,010
17.04.2009 MOT 53,637
04.04.2008 MOT 53,214
13.04.2007 MOT 52,863
07.04.2006 MOT 51,906
08.04.2005 MOT 50,941
16.04.2004 MOT 49,034
01.04.2003 MOT 47,471
19.04.2002 MOT 46,636
30.06.2000 MOT 45,974
19.04.1999 MOT 45,271
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Key Details
  • Model 280SL
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Reg. Date 01.01.1983
  • CC 2746
  • Mileage ~55,991 on clock
  • Colour Champagne Metallic
  • Interior Colour Palomino / Datte
  • Interior Trim Vinyl / fabric
  • Chassis # 10704222015150
  • Engine # 11099022002491
  • Last Service 04.08.2026
  • MOT Yes Exp: 03.08.2027
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 9
  • # of Keys 2
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~3 years, 5 months
  • Key Feature Usable Example / Low Reserve
  • Vehicle Registration UOA 709Y
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Convertible
  • Auction ID 3904
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Stockport

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £7,750
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    1983 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (R107)
    AUCTION STATUS RESERVE NOT MET
    RESERVE NOT MET RESERVE MET
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    Auction Ends Thu 3rd Sep at 7.40pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  5
    £7,750 bid by Fameone28.08.26 @ 20:12:22
    £7,500 bid by Sweet24.08.26 @ 13:09:06
    £7,000 bid by TH53323.08.26 @ 21:40:42
    £6,000 bid by TH53323.08.26 @ 21:40:19
    £5,000 bid by TH53323.08.26 @ 21:29:05
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    1602
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    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a 280 SL like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

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    Vehicle Location

    Stockport

    Key Bidding Facts

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    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

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