1985 Mercedes-Benz 380 Series

The Mercedes-Benz SL (Sport Leicht) has a proud tradition that dates back to the 300SL of the 1950s. Over the years, the SL would continue to be the fastest and most glamorous model in the Three-Pointed Star's model range. The powerful, two-seater sports car was fitted with every conceivable luxury feature and given the versatility of a removable hardtop.

Launched in April of 1971, the W107 SL would remain in production for the next 18 years. Nicknamed the Panzerwagen due to its massive strength, the W107 emphasized safety with features like a padded dashboard, and the fuel tank relocated to the boot inside the rigid bodyshell. Optional anti-lock brakes could be ordered, which improved safety even further. To compensate for the added weight, it was given a larger and more powerful V8 engines sourced from the S-Class sedans. Additionally, the new suspension system, with a trailing rear arm replacing the old swing axle, was a major improvement.

The 380SL's engine had a 3818cc displacement size and offered 218 horsepower with 224 lb/ft of torque. Power was driven through a more efficient four-speed automatic transmission using a torque converter instead of the older fluid coupling. The result was quicker speeds than the 350SL it replaced, as well as being more fuel-efficient. Additional gains in fuel economy were achieved by the use of aluminum in the body.

The luxurious V8 Convertible would become the longest passenger car series ever produced by Mercedes to date. The final iteration, the 560SL, would continue to be a status symbol and an iconic part of the company's lineup until it was finally replaced by the all-new fourth-generation SL in 1990.

Launched in 1980, the 380SL convertible and the 380-SLC Coupe retained the Type 107 bodyshell first introduced in 1971 in virtually unchanged form. The only major visual difference was the addition of a front spoiler.

This particular example was completed at the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant in February of 1985. It was delivered new to Danbury, CT resident Mr. Richard W. Knapp through Danbury Autohaus, a local Mercedes-Benz agency. It left the factory finished in silver metallic over a blue interior and optioned and equipped with both the car's soft and hardtop. The Knapps would retain the car for nearly three decades until it was purchased by its current caretaker.

This car has the worldwide VIN of WDB1070451A026795, as stamped on its chassis, and the US-market specific VIN of WDBBA45C4FA026795. The car currently has just over 7,800 documented miles from new.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2016