Highlights

Quirky German market specification: LHD, manual gearbox and rare colour scheme
Exceedingly original throughout
Dry-stored off the road from 2002 to 2017 and then again until recommissioned in 2025
Matching original hard top survives in great condition
Judiciously serviced with OEM parts
Voluntarily submitted for MOT: valid until December 2025

The Appeal

We see our fair share of R107 SLs at Car & Classic. The stylish German roadster sold particularly well in the UK, where its chic image proved highly desirable. This 1978 280 SL really stands out though, thanks to its unusual and refreshingly basic German home market specification; it doesn't even have a radio! This car's originality really shines through, no doubt aided by the fact it's spent much of its life cosseted off the road in dry storage.

So how did this German SL end up in the UK?

Well, the vendor's father purchased the car in 1999 while working in Germany. He brought it home to Great Britain with him and used it for a short while, before putting the car in storage in 2002. The SL returned to the road in 2017 and again in 2025 following some recommissioning work. Now MOT'd an returned to the road, this 'time warp' SL would be a superb addition to a Mercedes-Benz collection thanks to its unusual specification and impressive levels of originality.

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History and Paperwork

1978 MY German home market car
Purchased in Germany in 1999 by the seller's father
Previously had 1-2 registered keepers in Germany according to the vendor
We're informed that the SL has benefitted from excellent service history with no non-standard parts
Full service history from a German Mercedes dealer, followed by copious maintenance from two garages in the UK
Recent overhaul in 2017 and update in 2025
MOT valid until March 2026
Exempt from MOT and road tax
106,871 kilometres indicated

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The Condition

A very straight, level and solid-looking example throughout
Unusual and attractive Forest Green over matching green MB Tex upholstery
Zebrano interior trim including original radio blanking plate
Single exterior mirror
Steel wheels with hubcaps
Matching hard top in very good condition
We understand the folding soft top to be in serviceable condition
Both doors appear to close nicely, with tight gaps
Very smart, glossy paint finish
The vendor assures us that the bodywork is free from any known dents and corrosion
No notable imperfections apart from a very small patch on the A-pillar
Green MB Tex seats and matching carpets appear in superb condition for their age
Minimal wear apparent to the controls
We understand the switchgear and instruments to be in good order

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The Mechanics

2.8-litre DOHC petrol straight-six
Four-speed manual gearbox - very unusual
Exceedingly original engine compartment
Voluntarily MOT tested, with a few minor advisories to note
The vendor states that it runs exceedingly well and drives as an SL of this era should, with smooth gear changes and clutch engagement
Recent mechanical updates include a new fuel pump and brake calliper
Details of work carried out since arrival in the UK included in the history file (see invoices in gallery below)

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BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.