TRUSTED NATIONWIDE • CALL 01926 293530

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Curated Auction

1988 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

At a Glance

Nicely Presented | Desirable Colour Combo | Highly Usable | Ascot Grey | Serviced ~500 Miles Ago | Finance Available

  • Mileage~65,413 calculated
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine3.0-litre
  • LocationColchester

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

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£10,500
See Bidding
Register TO BID

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£10,500

See Bidding
Video #2

Introduction

Dom Ginn
Professional Consigner

Sit back, relax and enjoy cruising in luxury just like you were back in 1988.

Debuting in 1971, the R107-generation Mercedes-Benz SL was engineered as the pinnacle of luxury, safety, and grand touring versatility. Leveraging the brand's reputation for bomb-proof build quality and engineering finesse, the SL was designed as a high-end personal luxury icon, with a particular focus on the American market.

Its elegant design offers dual-purpose versatility thanks to the inclusion of both a soft-top and a hard-top. Benefiting from eighteen years of continuous refinement, the post-1985 SLs retained the classic elegance of the original while integrating contemporary advancements such as ABS, galvanised bodywork, advanced fuel injection, and improved passive safety. This blend of robust engineering and understated style created an iconic piece of Mercedes-Benz history - one whose prestigious original ownership continues to reinforce the car's ironclad reputation today.

Coming to market after just over a year with our vendor, this beautifully presented 1988 300 SL is finished in the desirable 'Ascot Grey', has a blue fabric roof and leather interior, it also comes with a hardtop, and, with just ~65,413 miles covered and a current MOT valid until 21.05.2027, it’s ready to jump in and enjoy.

This listing was written from information supplied by Dom after meeting Mark 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.

Video #2

Meet the owner

Owning an SL several years ago, Mark has taken a trip down memory lane with this lovely 1988 300 SL.

Mark has enjoyed the Mercedes for the past year, during which he's enjoyed regular cruises over to Wales.

Since he purchased the 300 SL, he has carried out some minor jobs that needed attention, such as replacing suspension parts, fitting new tyres, discs, and pads, to ensure it is as good as it should be.

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

Mark
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Finished in Ascot Grey with a Royal Blue hood and interior, the colour combination has to be one of the classiest combinations for an SL, don’t you think?

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with the original 15-inch, 15-hole flat-face wheels, these are finished in silver and are in excellent condition, with no damage or corrosion noted on the faces.

A matching set of Uniroyal RainExpert 5 tyres are fitted, which have only covered ~1,000 miles.

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

Looking around the SL, the panels appear to align with equal gaps and no dings or dents were spotted. There are a couple of small blisters, but these are very minor.

Looking through the paperwork, there were some repairs carried out to improve the rear arches. Mark also told us he has checked the bulkheads himself with an endoscope and all are in great condition, with no wet floors.

We’ve highlighted our observations in more detail through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take the time to review all media files to assess the car’s condition for yourself.

image

Paint

Finished in 'Ascot Grey', the paintwork presents very well with a nice finish.

There may be the odd age-related chip, but these are minimal.

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 appear to be in good condition with no noticeable scratches apart from some minor age-related marks. The seals also appear to be in good condition.

A blue fabric roof is fitted, which is in excellent condition. The headlights and rear lights are all in good order, with no splits or cracks to the lenses. A hardtop also comes with the car, the paintwork and glass are in good condition.

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

image
VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Luxurious blue leather on comfortable seats; it’s easy to see why SLs tick all the boxes to be a fantastic cruiser.

Seats and Carpets

The blue leather seats are in excellent condition for their age, with minimal signs of use. The carpets throughout are also in excellent condition with no real signs of wear.

Inside, the boot is clean and tidy, and the spare wheel is in place.

image

Dashboard

Looking across the blue dashboard, this is free from damage or age-related cracks. The wooden fascia, which runs down to the gear lever, is in excellent condition with no splits or crazing to the lacquered finish.

The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows ~52,940 miles. This was replaced in 1994 by Mercedes-Benz, when the car had covered ~12,473 miles, so it has actually covered ~65,413 miles.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Mark has added more luxury with a wood/leather steering wheel at a cost of £1,000.

The gear knob is in good order with no signs of excessive use.

image
VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

3.0-litre inline-six – the perfect powerhouse, offering great performance and good economy.

Engine and Gearbox

The 3.0-litre fires up nicely, settles to a smooth idle, and runs with no issues. Mark replaced the weeping rocker gasket and took a photo showing how clean the rockers were. This can be seen in the paperwork section. It has also recently received a full service, including gearbox and differential oils.

The automatic gearbox changes smoothly and the 3.0-litre pulls well.

Mark tells us that when the gearbox is warm, if you put it into reverse quickly, it can sometimes jerk a little.

image

Suspension and Brakes

On the road, the 300 SL handles as you would expect from a classic Mercedes. No knocks or bangs were heard coming from either corner, and the ride was smooth.

The brakes work as they should, bringing the SL to a stop in a straight line with no juddering through the pedal, and, you’ll be pleased to hear, the brake pads were replaced ~500 miles ago.

image

The Drive

Looking for a relaxed, refined driving experience rather than an outright sports car? The 300 SL ticks all the boxes… effortless cruising with the roof up or down, powered by the wonderful 3.0-litre inline-six engine, which performs well. Inside, it is comfortable and luxurious for its age in true Mercedes-Benz style.

image

Electrics and Other

All of the switchgear is working as it should and looks in good order, with no excessive signs of age on the buttons.

Adding a modern touch is a replacement Blaupunkt head unit.

image
VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

A nice collection of invoices, MOT certificates and service stamps helps verify the low mileage.

There are several invoices for work carried out over the years, along with a service history printout and the relevant stamps in the original service book. The odometer was changed in 1994 by Mercedes-Benz with the clock at 12,473 so the actual milage is ~65,413 (52,940 + 12,473).

The SL underwent an MOT test on 8th May and, as mentioned, was serviced ~500 miles ago.

If you’re in the market for an SL, there are generally a few to choose from, however, they can be prone to corrosion and often have high mileage which makes this the perfect car. Modest mileage and what looks to be a nice, solid example that presents extremely well.

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.

Trade Classics Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative (IAR) of AFS Compliance Ltd which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm number 625035. Trade Classics Limited is a vehicle sales business with permission to introduce prospective finance clients to Revered Finance Limited who is also an AR of AFS Compliance Ltd and an independent asset finance brokerage not a lender. We are not independent financial advisors and are unable to provide you with independent financial advice. Trade Classics Limited and Revered Finance Limited will receive payment(s) or other benefit from the finance provider if you decide to enter into an agreement with them. We work with both discretionary and non-discretionary commission models. Commission payments are factored into the interest rate you pay.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
08.05.2026 MOT 52,903
25.04.2025 MOT 50,934
22.05.2024 MOT 50,629
16.05.2023 MOT 50,616
18.03.2021 MOT 50,418
10.04.2019 MOT 48,624
18.04.2018 MOT 47,624
21.03.2017 MOT 46,875
21.03.2017 Service 46,874
27.04.2016 Service 45,382
09.03.2016 MOT 43,710
27.03.2015 Service 42,507
26.03.2015 MOT 42,507
03.03.2014 MOT 41,388
15.03.2013 MOT 41,330
09.11.2011 MOT 41,086
17.112010 MOT 40,104
30.11.2009 MOT 37,133
25.09.2009 Service 36,536
03.12.2008 MOT 33,930
21.11.2007 MOT 30,643
25.06.2007 Service 29,274
29.11.2006 MOT 28,184
08.11.2005 MOT 25,406
20.05.2003 Service 22,154
26.11.2001 Service 21,316
16.07.1999 Service 17,781
01.04.1998 Service 13,301
13.11.1996 Service 8,318
21.12.1995 Service 4,752
10.08.1995 MOT 4,204
12.04.1995 Service 2,503
22.08.1994 MOT 419
20.07.1994 Odometer changed by Mercedes-Benz 12,473 on old clock
31.08.1993 MOT 12,181
21.08.1993 Service 12,165
28.08.1992 MOT 10,802
05.06.1992 Service 10,077
03.09.1991 MOT 8,301
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Finance Available? Yew - contact us
  • Model 300 SL
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Reg. Date 01.08.1988
  • CC 2962
  • Mileage ~52,940 on clock (~65,413 calculated)
  • Colour Ascot Grey
  • Interior Colour Royal Blue
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # WDB1070412A089108
  • Engine # 10398222008365
  • Last Service ~500 miles ago
  • MOT Yes Exp: 21.05.2027
  • MOT Exempt Next Year
  • Road Tax Exempt Next Year
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 10
  • Tyre Brand Uniroyal
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~1 year, 1 month
  • Key Feature Condition
  • Vehicle Registration F452 LPJ
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Convertible
  • Auction ID 3750
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Colchester

Request A Delivery Calculation



    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £10,500
    £
    REGISTER TO BID
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 2nd Jul at 7.10pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  4
    £10,500 bid by JavWaseem8319.06.26 @ 09:48:03
    £10,000 bid by NC19.06.26 @ 08:17:53
    £7,700 bid by JavWaseem8318.06.26 @ 21:17:59
    £7,500 bid by beemer831018.06.26 @ 12:34:43
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    299
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    0 Comments
    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a 300SL like this is £220 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.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Colchester

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    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.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Network Connection – your device may lose connection and you’re not able to bid, or see the latest bidding history.

    Register Account

    Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

    Complete Form