For enthusiasts of classic automobiles, the allure of a vintage convertible is undeniable. My journey into classic car ownership began with a desire to move away from modern convertibles and embrace something with more character and history. The Mercedes-Benz SL quickly emerged as the prime candidate, but the decision wasn’t as simple as choosing the SL badge itself. The pivotal question was: R107 or R129? Ultimately, the Mercedes Benz 560sl, a member of the R107 family, became my chosen classic, and here’s why.
The R107 generation possessed a certain timeless elegance that resonated deeply. It exuded a classic roadster vibe that the more contemporary R129, while sophisticated, couldn’t quite capture in the same way. Beyond aesthetics, the R107 also presented itself as the more practical choice. Its simpler engineering promised greater reliability compared to the technologically advanced R129, a crucial factor for anyone seeking a classic for enjoyable driving rather than constant maintenance. Furthermore, the R107, and particularly the Mercedes Benz 560SL, evoked a strong sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of iconic 1980s American movies and television shows. These cultural touchstones cemented the R107’s status as a true classic in my mind.
Once the R107 was decided upon, the next crucial step was selecting the engine. For a car originally launched with a V8 engine, opting for a six-cylinder variant felt like a compromise. A V8 was essential to truly experience the spirit of the SL. However, the early V8 models, the 350SL and 450SL, were known for their potentially problematic electronic fuel injection systems. This, coupled with the common issue of rust in pre-1985 models, led me to look towards the later iterations of the R107.
This narrowed the search to the 420SL, 500SL, and the Mercedes Benz 560SL. The 420SL, with its limited production numbers, proved incredibly elusive. Finding a well-maintained 500SL also presented a significant challenge. This naturally steered my focus towards the Mercedes Benz 560SL. North America offered a greater availability of 560SL models, often at more accessible price points. While the US-specification bumpers of the 560SL might appear acceptable in photographs, their substantial size is less appealing in person.
The ideal solution emerged: a US-spec Mercedes Benz 560SL converted to European specifications. These converted models are available in Germany, though often at premium prices from specialist dealers like Brabus Classic. Eventually, my search led me to a specialist near Munich Airport, KH-Handelsagentur, where I found a selection of Mercedes Benz 560SL models. I was even presented with a choice of colors, ultimately selecting a white (code 147) 560SL with a light grey interior (code 278) over a blue (code 904) option. The experience with the specialist dealer was positive and professional, and my Mercedes Benz 560SL has proven to be a reliable and enjoyable classic car since purchase.
