Reserve Removed: 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300SL

This 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300SL is a European-specification convertible that comes accompanied by a color-matched removable hardtop, a black cloth soft top, and supporting documentation. Power comes from a 3.0-liter M103 inline-six paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the powertrain has reportedly received regular service by the seller who indicates that this SL has been family-owned for the last ten years. Finished in red over a tan MB-Tex interior, this R107 300SL is now offered with a CARFAX report, the removable hardtop and storage stand, owner’s manuals, and a clear Virginia title in the seller’s name.

The SL series, first launching in 1954, moved into its third “Super Light” body style in 1971. This 300SL from later in that generation is a European-market example that was imported to the United States early on in its life and is finished in red. Exterior design is accentuated by slim bumpers and unique lighting as compared to traditional North American units, and the profile is characterized by ribbed bodyside moldings, factory fog lamps, chrome trim and side-view mirrors, and a trunk-mounted third brake lamp. The seller states that the body is in good condition, having been garage-kept, although specific cosmetic blemishes have been called out in the accompanying photo gallery.

Silver-finished 15” Gullideckel wheels are noted to be in good condition, and braking is handled by a power-assisted disc setup.

The interior is fitted with tan MB-Tex bucket seat upholstery with matching door panels, center armrest, and carpeting with a two-tone dash. Burlwood trim is applied to the dash, center console, and other parts of the interior. Amenities include automatic climate control with air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, and power door locks. An aftermarket radio is installed in the dash which draws on the car’s battery power and needs to be replaced, and the seller states that the clock does not work.

Instrumentation includes a 160-mph speedometer, a 7k-rpm tachometer, an analog clock, and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and instantaneous fuel economy. The six-digit mechanical odometer reads 137k miles, which per the seller is a true reading.

The M103 3.0-liter inline-six was factory rated at 185 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, featuring Bosch fuel injection. The powertrain was last serviced with an oil change in 2019 and has received independent maintenance by the seller in recent years. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission and a console-mounted shift lever.

The sale includes the hardtop with a stand, owner’s manuals, and other documentation.