Mercedes-Benz SL-Class R 107 for Sale

The Mercedes Benz R107 (also known as the C107) was a luxury grand touring vehicle produced between 1971 and 1989. These units were sold under various model numbers during their presence within the market.

A History of the Mercedes Benz R107

The R107 can be see as a slight descendant of the Mercedes Benz W114. This is due to the presence of the primary chassis components. Production of the fist model (known as the 350 SL) began in 1971 and in October of the same year, the 350 SLC was introduced. The primary difference between the SL and the SLC was that the SLC was considered to be a coupé (hence the inclusion of the "C" in the title). North American sales commenced in 1972 and in 1973, a larger model with a more powerful V8 engine was offered. The engine continued to improve over the years. A prime example of this can be seen with the introduction of a 2.8-litre (straight six) model in the 280 SL and the SLC. A five-litre V8 engine was offered in 1977 under the 450 SLC 500 branding as well. Certain models such as the 280, 380 and 500 SLC were taken off of the market in 1981 and the final version produced was the 500 SL. The entire series enjoyed 18 years of existence. The Mercedes Benz R107 (C107) was discontinued in 1989.

Notable Variants of the Mercedes Benz R107

There are a few models which are considered to be high-quality versions of the standard R107. The aforementioned 450 SLC 500 is an example of this. Its engine and bonnet were both constructed of aluminium; thus reducing overall weight. Other features included a front-lip spoiler and a black rubber rear spoiler. The SLC 500 was specifically designed for the 1978 World Rally Championship. It should also be mentioned that the 450 SLC 500 is considered to be quite rare. While 62,888 of the SLC line were eventually produced, a mere 1,133 were the 450 variant. This is also the only Mercedes Benz coupé which embraced the roadster design as opposed to the more traditional sedan configuration.

Specifications of the Mercedes Benz R107 (C107)

There were a wide variety of engine capacities available. These ranged from a 2.6-litre "straight six" to a massive 5.6-litre V8. Both automatic and manual transmissions were available. A five-speed manual transmission was provided for the 280 and 300 SL/SLC line. Other unique features included trademark quad headlamps and notably large front and rear bumpers. Currently, the 500 SL and its 5.0-litre engine is still the fastest production model within the R107 line. It was able to reach a top speed of 225 kilometres per hour (140 miles per hour).