BF Classified: 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: South Windsor, Connecticut
• Mileage: 71,000 Shown
• Chassis #: WDBB4A8D2GA036019
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 5.6L V8 M117
• Transmission: Automatic

This 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL is a two-owner survivor that presents superbly. It carries the hallmarks of a classic that has been treated respectfully throughout its life, while the combination of interior features and the velvety-smooth V8 under the hood promises a refined, effortless motoring experience. The time has come for this Mercedes to find a new home, and with summer fast approaching, hitting the road with the top down and the wind in your hair may sound irresistible. Therefore, the owner has listed the SL exclusively with us at Barn Finds, priced at $37,500.

Many enthusiasts place great store in a known history, and this Mercedes ticks that box. Its first owner purchased it in Independence, Missouri, and remained there for several years before moving to Florida. The SL was his treasured possession, and only left his care around four years ago when he traded it at a specialty dealership. The current owner bought the Mercedes from that dealership and shipped it to his home in South Windsor, Connecticut. This classic is a genuine survivor finished in sparkling Champagne Metallic. It features a matching hardtop and a contrasting Brown soft-top. The overall condition of this survivor tells a positive story of a classic that its owners have treasured. Cosmetically, there is little to criticize. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are laser-straight, and scrolling through the image gallery confirms that this gem is rust-free. Close inspection reveals a small chip near the top latch and a repaired scratch on the boot. Both tops are in excellent condition, the glass is immaculate, and the wheels are free from stains and physical damage. The rear bumper sports a scuff that defies polish, but the car’s overall appearance will undoubtedly receive positive comments.

This Mercedes is more than a pretty face, as demonstrated by lifting the hood. The engine bay houses a 5.6-liter V8 producing 240hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque. Power is sent to the limited-slip rear end via a four-speed automatic transmission, while power steering was standard in 1986. However, there is more to the 560 SL than pure power, because four-wheel independent suspension makes these classics surprisingly agile, and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS cement the marque’s safety credentials. This classic has 71,000 miles on its odometer and, with a well-earned reputation for reliability, should offer its new owner many years of reliable motoring. It has been meticulously maintained by both owners, with a comprehensive Dealer Maintenance Log included in the sale. It has only clocked around 3,000 miles with its second owner behind the wheel, and has recently received its annual fluid change and new tires. The Mercedes runs and drives perfectly, and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

Mercedes marketed the 560 SL as a Personal Luxury Car. Therefore, the interior equipment level is impressive in a 1986 context. The buyer receives a driver’s airbag, leather trim, climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, intermittent wipers, and an AM/FM stereo radio with a cassette player. Interiors typically provide a true sense of the life a classic has led, because abuse is almost impossible to hide. This car’s Palomino leather trim has minor wear on the driver’s seat bolster, but that’s as bad as it gets. The remaining upholstered surfaces are in exceptional condition, the timber shows no evidence of significant deterioration, and the carpet is excellent. The A/C blows ice-cold, the heater provides plenty of warm air, and the remaining features work as they should. Driving this classic with the top down won’t embarrass the new owner.

The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL offers a perfect combination of comfort, refinement, and effortless long-distance cruising. It is equally comfortable in the city, where the torque of its beautiful V8 will not merely accelerate smoothly with a mere touch of the gas pedal, but allow it to keep pace in heavy traffic. The owner’s price looks extremely competitive, especially at a time when values are growing strongly. If luxurious top-down touring sounds irresistible, taking home this Mercedes makes perfect sense.