1986 Mercedes-Benz 560SL

Description

This Mercedes-Benz 560SL is a high-profile, fully loaded roadster that still delivers famous luxury and performance, even 30 years later. These cars were built in an era when engineers ruled Mercedes-Benz, and were built up to a standard, not down to a price. As a result, they're rugged, reliable, comfortable cars that will last virtually forever given proper maintenance, and the experience of driving one is unlike any other. And the funny thing is, most folks don't even realize how much of a bargain these cars are, so you can park it in your driveway and all the neighbors will be abuzz wondering when you won the lottery.

By 1986, Mercedes had the SL perfected, and there's definitely something to be said about Mercedes quality; your $60,000 in 1986 purchased one heck of an automobile. The gaps are precise, the doors open and close with precision now that they've been properly exercised, and the paint is glossier and smoother than anything else this side of a Rolls-Royce. Thanks to a repaint a dozen years ago, it still looks quite good, although there's a reason this one is so affordable. There are a few signs of use and a bit of fading on the removable hardtop, but given the quality materials and workmanship, it presents rather well overall. The subtle cream paint works very well on the sporting roadster and somehow the 560s look longer and more substantial than the earlier cars despite being identical in every measurable way. The chrome is in good condition and the rubber on the bumpers is in decent shape with only minor fading; after all, this is a car designed to spend its life in the sunshine.

The tan interior is trimmed in high quality leather and MB Tex vinyl, which wears like iron. It was originally brown but has been refurbished with light tan seats and carpets, which are a lot more comfortable when you're sitting under the hot sun in your convertible. The seat covers are correct and the contrasting brown door panels work rather well overall with the tan carpets. All SLs were strictly two-seaters, although there's a useful package shelf behind the seats for extra gear. A comprehensive array of gauges keep an eye on the mechanicals, and you're coddled with luxury features like climate control, a powerful stereo, power windows, and burled walnut trim, although there's a bit of fading on the center console, which isn't unusual in these cars. The black canvas convertible top stows easily under a hard tonneau, and a matching hardtop is included with the car. The trunk is outfitted with beautiful original carpets that are nicer than those in your house.

The final evolution of the SL received the biggest, most powerful engine to date, a 5.6 liter SOHC V8. Power delivery is smooth and seamless, with a fat torque curve that moves the roadster with the ease of an electric motor. A pleasant, bubbly idle and a great V8 rumble are the ideal soundtrack, just enough to let you know that there's still some sports car DNA running through its veins. The very clean engine bay in this SL shows signs of regular maintenance, and everything works as it should, as you'd expect from Mercedes-Benz. The 4-speed automatic clicks through the gears, the suspension is supple without losing its poise, and those traditional 15-inch Mercedes alloys wear recent 215/60/15 BFGoodrich radial tires.

Streetside Classics specializes in these awesome SLs, and this one represents a great combination of prestige and price. Call today!