Vehicle Description
How much class does 25 grand buy you these days? For that kind of
cash the only thing you'll get at a new car dealership is laughed
at. No, you're going to need to go used, and it'll have to be a
classic. Convertible? Absolutely. Timeless lines? Certainly. An
amazing on-the-road presence and V8 power? It's obvious you need a
Mercedes-Benz 560SL like this gorgeous 1988 roadster.
Anything longer than a quick glance will show that this car was
well cared for all of its life. The original gray paint shines
beautifully, and the body is very straight. These roadsters always
looked the best in subdued colors, and this car's no exception.
Both the folding soft top and hard top are included, which is great
for resale time. These cars were legendary for their clean lines
and restrained trim, and the brightwork is very nice from three
pointed star to tail. Those quad headlamps looked downright
anachronistic when the next SL came out, but history is definitely
kinder to this generation and they're starting to gather a real
enthusiast following. This was the car to have for doctors, movie
stars and those who wanted to be seen, and they still draw longing
glances today, mostly because nobody knows how affordable they
really are.
Inside, proper care is evident as well. The seats are beautiful
thanks to indoor storage and Mercedes' high-quality leather that
wears like iron. The carpets are protected by monogrammed floor
mats and the dash hasn't been baked by the sun. A large,
thick-rimmed steering wheel (complete with an air bag, a rarity in
1988) has signaled a relaxed and refined driving experience from
the golden age of motoring through the current Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The original AM/FM/cassette radio has been replaced by a JVC
AM/FM/CD stereo and it fits well enough that it looks like it has
always been there. Some SLs came with vestigial rear seats while
this car comes with an immaculately carpeted package shelf with a
pair of powerful aftermarket speakers. The doors close with a
reassuring clunk and the driving position is great for both running
errands and long road trips. The black canvas folding top is in
great shape and is obviously newer since the rear windows are so
clear.
Under the hood is the larger 5.6 liter V8, putting out 227
horsepower and 287 pounds of torque. That's not a gargantuan amount
by today's standards, but Mercedes was far more concerned with
refinement and ease of use than maximum power. These engines work
almost silently, propelling you forward like an electric motor.
Presentation here is excellent with all original components and
plenty of evidence of correct maintenance over the years, including
a recent tune up. It's also worth noting that the timing chain has
been replaced, the brakes were serviced with new calipers, and some
fresh transmission seals. With a completely stock car you're more
concerned with not finding parts to talk about, and with this one,
even the original exhaust is in place. Everything in the chassis
was as overbuilt as the rest of the car, and the ride is superb.
15-inch alloys are at all four corners, surrounded by 205/65/15
Michelin radials.
The R108 SL still is Mercedes-Benz' longest running, and with good
reason. Solid engineering, a great-looking body, a nicely
functional and upscale interior, smooth power and great looks are
always a winning combination. If you're ready to step into one of
the most recognizable cars in the world, give us a call today!