Footnotes

• Introduced in 1971, the all-new V8-engined 350SL was the first of a series replacing the popular 230/250/280SL family, though it was styled in a manner that left no doubt about its immediate ancestry. Longer and wider than that of the 'old' 280SL, the new W107 chassis featured front and rear crumple zones to meet the latest crash protection standards and was, inevitably, heavier than its predecessor's. Like its forebears, the newcomer was more sports-tourer than outright sports car and came equipped with all-independent suspension, similar to that of the 'New Generation' 200/250 models, featuring semi-trailing arms at the rear. Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated at the front) helped restrain the 130mph performance. As one would expect from a top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz, air conditioning, automatic transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes came as standard.
  A larger-engined model - the 450SL - soon followed but it would be another three years before the 280SL/SLC returned to the range. Mechanically almost identical to its larger siblings, though somewhat lighter in weight, the new version had the same 2.8-litre, twin-overhead-camshaft engine as the other '280' models, producing 185bhp in the SL/SLC, an output that was good enough for a top speed of 127mph. Transmission options consisted of a four-or five-speed manual as well as the standard automatic. The main attraction of the 280SL though, was that it offered superior fuel economy while retaining all the style and luxury of the larger and more expensive models.
  A right-hand drive example equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission, this 280SL has been in single family ownership from new, belonging to two brothers. The car was used as everyday transport until the early 2000s and has seen little use since then, covering fewer than 1,000 miles over the last ten or so years. 'SNU 657X' has benefited from considerable refurbishment within the last three years, undergoing body repairs and a re-spray and being given a new hood, brakes and various other items. Described as in generally very good condition, running well and ready to use, this desirable Mercedes-Benz convertible is offered with MoT to July 2012 and Swansea V5 registration document.
  

Auction Notices

• This is a 1982 car and not 1986 as catalogued.

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Category: Motoring / Motor Cars

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