Vehicle Description
The perennial Mercedes-Benz R107 series is one of the most iconic
luxury cars of the 70s and 80s. In movies, television, and in
reality, the SL roadster was so often seen cruising Rodeo Drive or
through Miami Beach. It was a car that came to define both the
marque and the cultural era. Such was its enduring charm and status
as an '80s icon; it is surprising to recall the R107 was first
introduced back in 1971. Known internally and by loyal fans as the
R107, the new generation of SL was designed in house at
Sindelfingen by Karl Wilfert and his gifted team. The styling was
understated and elegant yet also highly sophisticated.
Mercedes-Benz's obsession with occupant and pedestrian safety
through the 1960s led to a great number of subtle yet important
design features that would trickle down to the rest of the line
during the coming two decades. The SL roadster spoke to a new breed
of luxury roadster buyer, going on to become the longest-running
production passenger car in Mercedes' history. Mechanically, the
R107 took a page from its predecessors, riding on a unique platform
but sharing engines and suspension components with its sedan
counterparts. It was also incredibly well-built, with a particular
solidity and over-engineered nature that few manufacturers past or
present could match. Through the years of production, Mercedes
continually refined the formula, adding ever increasing
displacement V8 engines, improved materials and refined design. The
ultimate model in the R107 SL range is the 560SL. The big 5.6 liter
V8 from the S-Class was shoehorned into the SL's engine bay to
create a sporting car that was capable of 150mph performance while
remaining quiet, composed and sophisticated. It was the sports car
for those who preferred not to be ruffled when arriving at the club
in style and remains the choice for today's enthusiasts who want
the ideal combination of classic style and modern performance. This
1987 560SL is a very nice, unrestored and original example,
presented in classic Signal Red over a black leather interior; most
recently in the hands of a passionate enthusiast and member of the
Mercedes-Benz Club of America. It presents in remarkably
well-preserved original condition, having covered just 35,400 miles
from new and benefitting from meticulous care. The original paint
is in very good order, showing a few minor surface flaws on the
boot lid, and a handful of very minor stone chips on the front end
but otherwise, it is very straight and attractive with deep gloss
and excellent original panels. Fitment of the doors and decklids is
exemplary and the car retains the signature solidity that is so
inherent in Mercedes-Benz of this era. The chrome bumpers and
exterior trim are excellent, as are the original light and lenses.
The original painted alloy wheels show no dust, pitting or curb
damage and the car sits properly on correct size tires. The cabin
is trimmed in optional black leather, which is completely original
and in excellent condition. This car has clearly been cherished
since new, with the interior remaining in beautiful order. Seats
show only the slightest creasing from use, presenting with a very
nice and inviting condition. The wood trim on the center console
and dash is in excellent order with original switchgear, HVAC
controls and original Becker AM/FM cassette stereo all in excellent
condition. Beneath the removable hardtop and decklid is a black
German canvas top which is fine order, showing no fading of the
fabric and no damage or yellowing of the windows. Electrics all
work as they should and the sale will include an optional wind
deflector to keep buffeting to a minimum while enjoying top-down
drives. Mercedes-Benz's 5.6 liter V8 could easily be considered one
of the greatest engines of its time. It is powerful, smooth and
full of character, while remaining massively reliable. The engine
on this car presents in fine order, with a clean and tidy
presentation showing regular maintenance and care. Receipts show
over $7,000 worth of recent service to ensure it performs and
handles as one would expect from such a well-maintained original
example. Also included in the sale is a stand for safe storage of
the removable hard top, as well as a history binder, and original
books. Late production R107s are becoming ever more collectible as
enthusiasts recognize them for their timeless good looks,
outstanding performance and ease of ownership. This is a fine
example that has been cherished by the previous owner, maintained
in top condition and is now ready for enjoyment on the road by its
next passionate owner. . For additional details please view this
listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/5957-1987-mercedes-benz-560sl-convertible/