Time Capsule! 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL
I enjoy reviewing the great variety of Mercedes-Benz cars that show up on our BF tip list. Often, they’re either old SLs or SE/SEL sedans and they also seem to run the gamut on condition. Today, I’d like to present, for your consideration, a beautiful 1989 560SL, also known in M-B terminology as an R107. This 85K example is on its second owner who is looking to pass this North Plains, Oregon resident on to owner number three. This luxury two-seater is available, here on craigslist for $26,999.
While the R107 spanned the years 1971-1989, the 560SL was a North America-only variant produced between ’86 and ’89. The 560 designation references the 5.5 liter, 227 HP V8 engine – a rather leisurely output for an engine of this size and sophistication. The seller mentions that all major services, fluid changes, i.e. have been recently performed. The seller neglects, however, to tell us how well this Benz operates but does state that it’s only driven about 2,500 miles per year. An automatic transmission was standard 560SL equipment and the listing claims it “shifts perfectly“.
The exterior is finished in a dirt-hiding (according to the seller) hue known as Champagne. The finish looks strong, with a consistent shine and no sign of fade. The black rubber trim, fairly substantial in its presence, reveals no discoloration or splits. The folding convertible top, along with its plastic rear and quarter windows, look like new. In the listing, there is an image of a removable hardtop so I’ll run with the assumption that it’s included in the sale – nevertheless, interested buyers should verify that item.
The interior is outfitted in superb creme-colored leather upholstery, while the carpet looks as if it has had little interaction with shoes, and the door cards are just about perfect. The original, high-quality Becker radio is still holding court in the center stack and we’re told that its power antenna is operational. There’s no need to worry about dash pad cracks with this Benz, it is unmarred.
This fantastic tourer is a genuine time capsule, a car that doesn’t show any differently now than it likely did 34 years ago. It’s obviously a sophisticated automobile but it’s not over the top in the way that a modern Benz is. Sometimes when enough is just right, too much isn’t perfect and I would suggest that’s the case with this 560SL. Let’s talk price; at $26,999, what do you think, priced right or not quite?
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Comments
At 88k+ miles, it would behoove the buyer to get the timing chain/rails replaced, if it hasn’t yet been done. That’s a $3k job that I’d factor into the negotiation.
“…a genuine time capsule…”
still being made well back then, no more.
Needs bent8 it’s so heavy? Like the ‘smooth style’
of these straight lines (all R-107 line – 2, 4, 500). Long
lasting too, grill’s esp great big opening (popular now) w/
big ol.. what is that? a peace sign?
Funny I have been shopping these and our prices on the east coast are a little less than this offering.
That being said, at that mileage timing chain for sure and a check on engine mounts, carrier bearing and mount and steering components is a must.
Nice car with lots of potential.
On BAT, there are two 450 SLC coupes at $1,300 each!
right mrs.h
It’s not Champagne, it’s Smokey Silver over Cream Beige leather. The most boring combo available in the late 80′ & early 90’s.