BF Exclusive: 1984 Mercedes-Benz 380SL

Asking: $10,500Make Offer

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Seller: Jay R eeve (Contact)
Location: Athens, Texas
Mileage: 147,090 Shown
Chassis #: WDBBA45A4EA005300
Title Status: Clean
Engine: 3.8-Liter V8
Transmission: Automatic

A known history is always a positive attribute when searching for a classic to park in your driveway. This 1984 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL Hardtop Convertible ticks that box, as the seller purchased it from the original owner and has enjoyed all that it offers. The Mercedes runs and drives extremely well and appears to have only one tiny rust spot that the buyer could easily and cheaply address. With plenty of sunny weather remaining before winter arrives, there are still ample opportunities available for the buyer to remove the Hardtop to indulge in a wind-in-the-hair motoring experience. With that thought in mind, the owner has listed the 380SL exclusively with us at Barn Finds with an asking price of $10,500.

Introduced in 1971, the Mercedes-Benz R107 and C107 range was the company’s contender in the North American Personal Luxury Car market segment from 1972. The 380SL appeared in 1981, with the last cars rolling off showroom floors in 1985. The company provided a broad color palette, with some shades quite subtle and others bright and vibrant. The Signal Red gracing this car’s exterior falls into the latter category, but does so without compromising the car’s classy styling and luxury leanings. The first owner purchased the Merc as a gift for his wife, and the current owner later purchased it from her. They describe the 380SL as a driver-quality classic, not a show car. The paint shines extremely well for its age, with no major cosmetic imperfections. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the only known rust is a small spot appearing through the paint on the deck lid. Otherwise, this survivor is rock-solid. The color-matched Hardtop appears virtually flawless, and removal is easy for those wishing to appreciate the full Convertible motoring experience. The glass is clear, the trim is in good condition, and the original alloy wheels are extremely clean.

Mercedes-Benz enjoys a well-earned reputation for reliability, which it further enhanced through consistent success in the World Endurance Championship when this 380SL left the line. If serviced and maintained appropriately, the drivetrain components can provide bulletproof service for many decades. This Convertible features the company’s sweet fuel-injected 3.8-liter V8, producing 155hp and 196 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission sends the power to the rear wheels, while the driver benefits from power steering and power brakes. The owner states that this Mercedes runs and drives as well as it did when it left the showroom. He describes it as a blast to drive, a claim that I find readily believable. Therefore, potential buyers can consider the Convertible a turnkey proposition.

The “survivor-grade” theme continues inside this 380SL. Trimmed in Tan, its presentation is very tidy considering the pale trim and carpet shade. The seats exhibit minor marks, but no gaping holes or other problems. A set of tailored floor mats has done an admirable job of protecting the carpet while adding a further classy touch. The new owner could leave it untouched, although fitting a set of slipcovers would protect the seats from further deterioration. The walnut trim is in above-average condition, and there are no issues with the dash or pad. The buyer receives power windows and a power antenna, while the upgraded CD stereo with rear-mounted speakers provides in-car entertainment with plenty of bass.

This 1984 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL Convertible is a gem. It presents nicely for those seeking a survivor-grade classic, and the owner’s price is extremely competitive. The Hardtop makes it a practical all-weather option, but removing the top allows occupants an uninterrupted view of the outside world. It should offer the new owner years of reliable motoring pleasure, which is one of the marque’s greatest strengths. It is worth spending time scrolling through the image gallery to discover just how nice this classic is. Once you have done so, you may find this 380SL irresistible.