Lot 004: 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 April 1979, this 350SL has had just two owners in the last 22 years, the current vendor having owned it since 1999. Resprayed about three years ago, it is said to have been well maintained and comes with a long run of old MOTs back to 1986 showing regular use and confirming the mileage of 147,600.It comes with a face-off CD player and an attractive and valuable personalised number plate, LAT 629. MOTd and taxed until May 2008, it is only reluctantly being sold because the owner has been posted overseas for two years. It is offered here entirely without reserve.