1980 | Mercedes-Benz 380 SLC

Highlights:

• Excellent history
• Very solid condition
• Timeless color combination

Brand & Model History:
The 380 SLC was produced for only two years (1980/1981). It succeeded the 350 SLC and was replaced by the S-Class Coupé (C126) at the end of 1981. Only around 3,800 units of the 380 SLC were produced, and it’s estimated that only about 200 vehicles still exist in Germany today. As a roadster (R107, 380 SL), this vehicle concept remained in Mercedes-Benz's production program until 1985.

Condition & History:
Factory delivery in Sindelfingen on June 30, 1980. This Mercedes was first registered on July 2, 1980, by a restaurant owner from Berlin-Steglitz, who owned the vehicle for about ten years. During this time, he added aftermarket Remotec wheels and an ATI sports steering wheel (now all restored to original condition).
In the 1990s, the car changed hands several times in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, and between August 1996 and April 1999, it was largely deregistered, contributing to its relatively low mileage for a 44-year-old car.

In 1999, the SLC was acquired by a TV production company, which commissioned over 30,000 DM in restoration work. This included reupholstering the entire interior in light leather, restoring the steering wheel and wheels, renewing window seals, and carrying out welding and paint repairs. The car was also treated with cavity protection, and a TÜV Süd appraisal valued it at 33,000 DM.

In 2001, an entrepreneur purchased the car, fulfilling a long-held dream. In 2003, a Classic Data appraisal rated the car with a condition grade of 2+. He later sold it to a local lawyer, who owned it until 2014, covering about 19,000 km. During this time, minor repairs were professionally handled by the Mercedes-Benz service.

The current owner acquired the car in 2014 and had it thoroughly inspected and serviced. Over the last 10 years, it was carefully stored in a dry garage and never exposed to rain, only driven on short tours during dry weather.

Now, with only 1,500 km driven over the past decade, the owner must downsize due to an upcoming move, allowing someone else to enjoy this timeless car.

While 44 years is a long life for a car, and despite a partial restoration, signs of use are visible. Some minor paint imperfections can be seen, and after removing fender chrome in 2014, small paint defects were revealed.

Market Position:
The 380 SLC is a relatively rare classic in the C107 series. In reasonable condition, they are hard to find, with market values ranging between €10,000 and €46,000, depending on condition grades 1 to 4.

Summary:
The mechanics are robust, and the body is well-protected by cavity conservation. There are no known rust spots. This is not a potential museum piece, but an affordable, practical classic suitable as a "daily driver." The SLC is fully operational; the engine starts immediately, the oil pressure is prompt, and the transmission shifts smoothly, as four-speed automatics of the 1980s were known for.

The suspension is in good shape, with no rattles and a very comfortable ride.