The Mercedes-Benz R107 platform has earned its reputation the slow, honest way, by lasting. This 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL is a good example of why these cars continue to attract collectors who value build quality, understated design, and long-term ownership appeal. Listed on eBay, this SL comes with the kind of background many buyers hope to find but rarely do: long-term ownership, original panels, and Southwest history.
According to the seller, they’ve owned this 560SL for more than 11 years. During that time, the car remained intact and unmodified, retaining its original body panels and overall factory configuration. It’s described as a Southwest car with no rust, which is a major point in its favor given how vulnerable these cars can be to corrosion when exposed to moisture over long periods.
The car is powered by Mercedes-Benz’s 5.6-liter V8 paired with an automatic transmission, a combination that defined the final years of the R107 generation. While mileage shows just over 102,000 miles, the seller notes that the car has been parked for several years. It was reportedly running well when stored, but it has not been started recently and should be considered a non-running vehicle at this time. Any buyer should plan for a proper recommissioning before attempting regular use.
Cosmetically, the seller is upfront about the needs. The paint shows clear coat failure and general cosmetic aging, which is consistent with original finishes from this era. That said, the structure underneath is described as solid and straight, making this more of a mechanical and cosmetic revival rather than a rescue project. The interior is said to be in good condition and the car was reportedly not smoked in when it was last in use.
Because it has been sitting, the seller recommends typical recommissioning steps such as fuel system cleaning, inspecting fuel lines, servicing injectors, and addressing any age-related mechanical needs before driving. No attempts have been made recently to start the car, which helps set realistic expectations for prospective buyers.
Overall, this 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL appears to offer strong fundamentals: rust-free body, original panels, clean title, and long-term ownership. For someone looking to repaint, refresh, and bring an unmolested R107 back to life, this example offers a solid starting point without the hidden issues that often come with more heavily altered cars. As values continue to stabilize around originality and condition, cars like this are becoming harder to find.
I like these cars and own one. This example has a recorded mileage discrepancy on the title. Might be nothing but things like changing out the timing chain – a must after all this time – are très chère, as is everything else. Having eleven out of its 38 years accounted for is nice but not unusual for this model. Lots of former owners used these cars lightly. I’d feel better if the seller had sheafs of paperwork on the car if it’s going to sell based on its history.
That said, these are getting restored. This one’s highest and best use might be as a parts car, which is about the price it’s bid to now.
PS. The seller may call the interior “good” but that dash is a mess and the center of the steering wheel is weirdly warped. More $$!
I want an R107, but am too old to take on a project. The good news is MB offers plenty of OEM parts for old cars, hear that GM, Ford and Chrysler. That dash is trash. I’m sure mice have destroyed some wiring. I would not attempt to start this without dropping fuel tank, cleaning injectors, etec. Radiator out for cleaning. Paint will run thousands to do it properly. Plenty of better ones for sale.
at outrageous prices.
run fast, don’t stop till you are in the next state. I worked for mercedes, I have owned over a dozen beginning with a 280SE (70) when I was 21. I know the brand. paint alone will cost more than a month’s income to do it right. now worth it if free.
this site built my enthusiasm for these models xxxSL & SLxxx). Thanks BF! All ways liked the 190SL but now watch for the full line till bout ’98 when they dropped the i6 (200’s, ’63/71; 300s ’71/89; & ’88/98). A top car (of course) is the gulwing – the 190’s as offshoot (reason for creation)