Incredible Mercedes R107 SL Discovery
A true time capsule has been discovered in the UK – a Mercedes R107 SL that was hardly used since its release. This car is impressive due to its condition, as its first owner received it back in 1982 but never started using it actively.
Discovery Details
The 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL has covered only 42 miles (68 km) in its entire lifetime. It was never registered, never had license plates installed, and looks as if it just left the showroom. This is a rare specimen that has been preserved in perfect condition.
Model’s Historical Context
The R107 model was introduced in 1971 as the successor to the W113 Pagoda. It combined the elegance of a grand tourer with reliability, making it a true legend. In 1980, the 500 SL version appeared with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 237 hp and was considered the pinnacle of the European SL lineup.
This R107-generation SL has covered only 42 miles since its release, but looks as if it hasn’t driven any. It was never registered, never had license plates, and looks exactly as it would have in a Mercedes showroom.
Uniqueness of the Discovery
According to The SL Shop founder Sam Bailey, this car has numerous small details characteristic of the 1980s era: stickers, chalk marks, and traces of lubricant. Even the paint looks different from other cars with the same code, since it was never exposed to sunlight.
Ownership History
The first owner, Mr. Huff, remembered this car 15 years ago at a classic car show. However, only this year did he decide to part with it. The only change he made was a silver Mercedes logo on the hood, made by hand.
Car’s Future
From the smell of the wood-and-leather interior to the 44-year-old Michelin XWX tires – this car transports you to an era when Mercedes engineering was the most reliable. The SL Shop doesn’t plan to sell this rarity. Instead, it will be preserved in a climate-controlled exhibition space and serve as a benchmark for future SL model restorations.
Such a discovery reminds us how important it is to preserve automotive heritage. This Mercedes not only demonstrates past technologies but also becomes a vivid example of how history can be preserved for future generations. Similar specimens help us better understand the evolution of automobile manufacturing and its influence on modern trends.