1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL Roadster with Hardtop

Chassis no. WDBBA48D8GA053729

Footnotes

Launched in late 1985, the 560 SL convertible/coupé was the latest in Mercedes-Benz's long and much loved line of luxury sports cars that could trace its lineage back to the 230SL of 1963. In the 560 SL's case its Type 107 bodyshell had debuted on the 350 SL (introduced in 1970) and this timeless style would continue in production for another five years. Mercedes-Benz's flagship model, the 560 SL was powered by a 5.5-litre, overhead-camshaft V8 engine producing 227bhp, an output good enough for a top speed of 220km/h with 100km/h reachable in around 8 seconds. There were improvements to the running gear in the form of anti-dive/anti-squat rear suspension, a limited-slip differential and revised steering geometry. Other noteworthy features incorporated as standard in this class-leading automobile included leather upholstery, anti-lock braking, anti-theft alarm system, stereo radio/cassette, leather trimmed steering wheel/shift lever, and an improved climate control system. With its class-leading specification and impeccable pedigree, the exclusive 560 SL appealed to wealthy enthusiasts and even wealthier celebrities in equal measure. Numbered among the latter was Madonna, whose 560 SL Bonhams sold in 2014, while the look-alike 450 SL had a starring role in the popular television series Dallas, driven by Patrick Duffy's character, Bobby Ewing.

The 560 SL we offer was delivered new to the USA. Its early history is unknown but the car stayed in the USA until 2017, in the state of North Carolina (old US title on file). The Mercedes was then shipped to Belgium and sold to the current owner, a Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. It was converted from US to EU specification, changing the bumpers, front and rear lights, etc. The odometer, however, stayed in place, and the odometer reading of circa 90,000 miles is believed genuine. Registered in June 2018 in the current owner's name, the car has seen relatively little use since. The black soft-top is in excellent condition, and the SL starts and runs instantly and is said to be in good mechanical order. The car is offered with its Mercedes pouch; current Belgian registration documents; 1986 owner's service book (empty); 560 SL owner's manual; and the aforementioned old US title.