Mercedes-Benz 280SL Roadster

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Although the Steyr-assembled G-Wagen holds the honour of being the longest running Mercedes model (35 years and still going strong), in second place comes the evergreen W107 Series SL.

Launched in 1971 and following on from the beautiful ‘Pagoda’ top SL, it was to remain in production for a full 18 years before the more wedge-shaped 129 Series finally replaced it in 1989. Beautifully built and a pleasure to drive, it just oozed class and no episode of Dallas was complete without a 107 scrunching up the drive to a Texan oil baron’s mansion.

Initially launched with a 3.5 litre V8, it wasn’t long before more engine options were added. The 280SL arrived in 1974 and was the baby of the range with a creamy smooth 2.8-litre straight-six engine that produced a quoted 182bhp and 176lb/ft of torque. More economical than the larger V8 models, it was still respectably quick with a top speed of 129mph and it remained in production until 1985.

One of the last W107 280SLs to leave the factory, this gold coloured example came into the vendor’s hands in 1996 with 40,000 miles on the clock. Regularly serviced by his local garage, its mileage has accumulated to 97,000 miles which the vendor confirms is correct.

Having been passed around within the family, ownership now rests with the son of the household who is spending most of his time abroad. Having realised that he will never be in a position to use the car properly, he has decided to pass it on to someone who will.

Complete with hard and soft tops, it retains the original book pack and has just passed its MOTd which expires in February 2016.  Another strong contender in our ‘most potential in the sale’ category, it’s a car that needs getting hold of now before the cosmetic condition deteriorates beyond straightforward repair.

Bidders are advised that the number plate shown in the photographs is definitely not included in the sale.