1981 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL

MERCEDES 280 SL W107 – 1981

Make: Mercedes-Benz

Model: 280 SL (R107 Series)

Year: 1981

Chassis: WDB10704210012324

Engine: M110.990

Displacement: 2,746 cc – 136 kW (185 hp)

Odometer: 94,000 km

Owners: 1 since 1990

Certification: Registered with ASI (Italian Historic Vehicle Register)

Interior: Black MB-Tex

Exterior: White

Soft top: Black

Equipment:

Alloy wheels

Electric windows

Original air conditioning

Blaupunkt Stockholm period-correct radio

5-speed manual transmission

Original color-matching hard top

Model history and overview

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL from the R107 series is one of the most iconic and long-lived roadsters ever produced by the Stuttgart manufacturer. Built from 1971 to 1989, the R107 is renowned for its timeless design, exceptional build quality, and mechanical reliability, making it highly desirable among collectors today.

The 280 SL was designed for the European market and features the legendary M110 inline six-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts. Producing 185 hp, it delivers a refined yet engaging driving experience, combining performance with comfort.

The 5-speed manual version is particularly desirable and relatively rare, as most examples were originally delivered with automatic transmission.

History of this specific car

This vehicle was first registered in Germany in 1981 and imported to Italy in 1990 as a lightly used car. Since then, it has remained in the hands of a single owner who has maintained it with great care.

The car has been regularly serviced and has consistently passed mandatory inspections, remaining in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition. The mileage of 94,000 km is consistent with its overall state.

Certification and historical significance

The ASI registration is an important certification confirming the vehicle’s historical authenticity and originality.

The combination of:

single long-term ownership

original configuration

well-preserved period features

original hard top and soft top

makes this example particularly appealing to collectors.

Condition and features

The car is in excellent condition and ready for immediate use, requiring no work.

It comes complete with:

original hard top

original black soft top in perfect condition

Notably, it is equipped with factory air conditioning, a rare option at the time, as well as a period-correct Blaupunkt Stockholm radio.

The black MB-Tex interior and white exterior are both very well preserved, highlighting the timeless elegance of the R107 design.

Conclusion

This Mercedes 280 SL R107 represents a rare opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, certified, and highly original example of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most iconic models—combining driving pleasure, historical significance, and strong investment potential.