The replacement of the W113 series known as the "Pagoda" by the successor model R107 heralded a newer era at Mercedes-Benz in 1971. In contrast to the rather filigree predecessor model, the third generation of the SL was much more self-confident and dynamic due to the angular, wedge-shaped design. The modern design, including broadband headlights and fluted taillights, for which Friedrich Geiger was responsible, was henceforth to have a style-defining effect on the subsequent Mercedes models of the seventies and was taken up just one year later in the S-Class, which was relaunched in 1972. The model policy of Mercedes-Benz benefited the full-size roadster, so that the R107 model series was still produced until 1989 despite the successor model already developed. Due to the long production period, the R107 went through numerous engine generations from Mercedes-Benz, and was offered over the years in a wide variety of six- and eight-cylinder units. In the 18 years of production, the R107 was sold a total of almost 240,000 times, and thus still counts today as a record holder at Mercedes-Benz.

In this auction, it is now possible to purchase a Mercedes-Benz SL 280 of the R107 model series. The roadster with the VIN WDB10704212007656 rolled off the production line in 1986 and was first approved for road traffic in July of the same year. The car was first exported from Germany to California, where he spent most of his time so far. As a California import, the SL is still visually identical to the EU models. The exact number of vehicle owners is not known, a history is not available. Whether it is a vehicle with "matching numbers", the seller can not confirm with certainty. The Roadster comes with fresh TüV and H approval, a valuation report is not available. The car comes with a set of a total of 2 vehicle keys.

Mercedes-Benz calls the colour scheme in which the body of the SL 280 presents itself "silver thistle green". According to the seller, the paint was already renewed a few years ago. Thanks to the Californian sun, the body is in a carefree overall condition, and shows only some age-related signs of use. For example, some stone chips can be removed from the paintwork, and there are minor scratches on bumpers and door edges. True to the motto "best of both worlds", the roadster can score with an apparently rust-free condition due to its Californian past, and is still largely in original EU design. The bumpers are also the EU variant, whose lush chrome applications have not lost their shine even after 35 years. As a roadster, the SL 280 comes in true style with a fabric top, which was recently renewed

The mounted Mercedes-Benz "baroque rims" also show some signs of use, but no major damage can be found. No information is available on the condition of the tyres. The brakes recently received a new master brake cylinder and are doing their job properly. According to the information, the car is currently in accident-free condition.

In addition to the leather-covered seats, the interior of the roadster is equipped with the characteristic "MB-Tex" covers. The interior, including chrome trim, wood panelling and leather upholstery, looks very well maintained and shows hardly any signs of wear. There is no UV damage to both the dashboard and the wooden applications, and the driver's and front passenger's seats have also apparently enjoyed the best care over the past 35 years. In addition to the built-in automatic transmission, an air conditioning system is part of the optional equipment of the SL, which, according to the seller, should be filled with new coolant.

For approval in the USA, the speedometer was converted to a version with mileage display, but the speed can also be read in km/h on the basis of the attached markings. The five-digit speedometer shows a mileage of 125021 miles, which corresponds to about 200,000km. The mileage of the car cannot be proven by missing checkbook entries and the non-existent history. According to the information, the instruments work without restrictions.

Under the long hood of the roadster is the in-line six-cylinder engine known as the M110, which produces an output of 185 hp with a displacement of 2746 cc. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels by means of an automatic 4-speed transmission. The car received the last service in March 2022. The only repair carried out by the seller is the installation of a new master brake cylinder. Defects in the area of technology and engine are not known, so that no further work is currently pending. The underbody of the roadster has a good substance and is in a solid condition.