1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SL

Description

How much class does 25 grand buy you these days? For that kind of cash the only thing you'll get at a new car dealership is laughed at. No, you're going to need to go used, and it'll have to be a classic. Convertible? Absolutely. Timeless lines? Certainly. An amazing on-the-road presence and V8 power? It's obvious you need a Mercedes-Benz 560SL like this gorgeous maroon 1988 roadster.

Anything longer than a quick glance will show that this car was well cared for all of its life. The original Cabernet Red paint shines beautifully, and the body is very straight. These roadsters always looked the best in subdued colors, and this car's no exception. Both the folding soft top and hard top are included, which is great for resale time. These cars were legendary for their clean lines and restrained trim, and the brightwork is very nice from three pointed star to tail. Those quad headlamps looked downright anachronistic when the next SL came out, but history is definitely kinder to this generation and they're starting to gather a real enthusiast following. This was the car to have for doctors, movie stars and those who wanted to be seen, and they still draw longing glances today, mostly because nobody knows how affordable they really are.

Inside, proper care is evident as well. The seats are beautiful thanks to indoor storage and Mercedes' MB-Tex material that wears like iron. The carpets are nice and the dash isn't baked by the sun. A large, thin-rimmed steering wheel (complete with an air bag, a rarity in 1988) has signaled a relaxed and refined driving experience from the golden age of motoring through the current Rolls-Royce Phantom. The original AM/FM/cassette radio is in the dash rather than a later aftermarket unit which would spoil the interior's aesthetics. Some SLs came with vestigial rear seats while this car comes with an infinitely more practical storage area that's perfect for a weekend getaway. The doors close with a reassuring clunk and the driving position is great for both running errands and long road trips. The folding top is in great shape and is obviously newer since the rear windows are so clear.

Under the hood is the larger 5.6 liter V8, putting out 227 horsepower and 287 pounds of torque. That's not a gargantuan amount by today's standards, but Mercedes was far more concerned with refinement and ease of use than maximum power. These engines work almost silently, propelling you forward like an electric motor. Presentation here is excellent with all original components and plenty of evidence of correct maintenance over the years. A new radiator is up front and newer tune up parts are in their places. With a completely stock car you're more concerned with not finding parts to talk about, and with this one, even the original exhaust is in place while the fuel filter and fuel pump are newer replacements. Everything in the chassis was as overbuilt as the rest of the car, and the ride is superb. 15-inch alloys are at all four corners, surrounded by 205/65/15 Michelin radials.

This generation of SL still is Mercedes-Benz' longest running, and with good reason. Solid engineering, a great-looking body, a nicely functional and upscale interior, smooth power and great looks are always a winning combination. If you're ready to step into one of the most recognizable cars in the world, give us a call today!