Collector Grade R107: 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL – Sold?

May 11, 2022, Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The Mercedes-Benz R107 is perhaps one of the most recognized classics on the road today, and despite coming into its prime during the peak Radwood years, it’s loved by enthusiasts across a wide spectrum. But there is a difference between “good” cars and “great” cars in this model range, especially when it comes to the price you’re going to pay. This particular car, a 1989 560SL with under 80,000 miles and zero rust was originally listed on Craigslist in April 2022 in Webster, Massachusetts with the seller noting it’s originally a California car. He’s asking $33,800, and comparing that price on Classic.com shows us that many similar examples are selling for similar money if not more.

In some ways, familiarity can kill off some of the excitement around an R107 when it comes up for grabs. After all, there’s no shortage of good cars for sale, as many of them were purchased as third vehicles by retirees who drove them six months out of the year. There’s also plenty of variation on the theme, as earlier cars were the prettiest with their slim chrome bumpers and stronger resemblance to the European-market cars; the late 70s and early 80s were bad for the model line, just like everything else from the malaise era; and then the late 80s reside somewhere in the middle, with improved cosmetics and more powerful engines, but still not at the same level as the European market specimens. In fact, one could argue the highest concentration of gray-market cars exists in this family of Mercedes convertibles. Fortunately, our subject car is a very nice late-production model with a healthy V8 and excellent cosmetics.

The Tedward YouTube Channel provides this Point-Of-View (“POV”) video of what it’s like to drive an R107 Mercedes 560SL:

The dividing line between a desirable R107 and a throwaway car is pretty stark. There’s not much middle ground with these cars, but rather a large legion of cheap, disposable craigslist beaters or a top-tier class of low-mileage specimens that go for very real money. This 560SL is very much in the latter category, with what looks like pristine paint and a color-matched factory hardtop. While it’s currently located in a small town near Worcester, Massachusetts, the seller confirms it previously resided in California. Based on the rust-free underside photos, it’s highly unlikely that it’s spent much time in New England. The interior is unrestored but it looks to be in excellent shape, and the dash is uncracked. Convertibles tend to suffer when they’re used as intended, with the interiors usually trashed by years of sun exposure. Looking at the cockpit and paint condition, it’s safe to say this 560SL clearly resides in the camp of cars that you can safely ask more than $30,000 for. Good luck with the purchase if you take this gorgeous Mercedes home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“For Sale

1989 Mercedes Benz 560sl
72k Miles – original miles (verified by Mercedes service booklet)

This is a collector-grade Mercedes 560sl

Excellent condition
A rust free car that never had any rust. No rust repairs performed, ever. Garage kept.
Everybody panel has perfect fit and has never been off the car.

All VIN decals are where the factory put them.

Immaculate paint
Beautiful interior
Original dash without tears, rips or repairs

AC is cold
Heat is hot

Books and manuals present

Original spare tire has never been used.

Original tools present.
Michelin tires all around.

Please contact me with serious interest for more information. Selling in order to finish another car project.

This 560sl will make the new owner proud.”

R107 legacy: do you think these classic Mercedes drop-tops are worth the hype?