Lot 009: Mercedes-Benz 350SL

Launched in 1971, the 350SL was the first model in the new W107 range of Mercedes SL sportscars that were to replace the classic Pagoda roof SLs. Bigger and heavier than the outgoing cars, it was powered by an unburstable 3.5-litre V8 mated to an automatic gearbox and had a maximum speed of 128mph. S-Class suspension was used for improved ride comfort in keeping with the overall shift towards luxury in the SL range. Build quality was outstanding and these classic cars are still eminently capable of everyday use. First registered in February 1980, this 350SL has covered a genuine 88,242 miles from new and has a full service history, the majority of it from Mercedes-Benz main dealers. The car had a speedo change at around 70,000 miles which is documented in the history folder and the new one now reads 18,242.The current vendor has owned the car for seven years and has only used it in the summer. It has had just three other keepers before that. Said to drive very well and to be in good condition for its year, it comes with its original factory hardtop and is only being sold because the arrival of some new family members means it is unlikely to get used for quite some time to come.