1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 Series Roadster

The Mercedes-Benz 560SL was launched in 1985 and available as a convertible coupe. It was a luxury sports car that had a Type 107 bodyshell that had made its appearance in 1970 on the 350SL. The 560 SL was created for the American market, with its overhead-camshaft V8 engine that produced an astounding 277 horsepower. Zero-to-sixty was achieved in just eight seconds and top speed was in the neighborhood of 136 mph. The cars had a limited slip differential, revised steering geometry, leather upholstery, anti-lock braking, anti-theft alarm system, leather trimmed steering wheel and shift lever, stereo radio-cassette, and an improved climate control system.

For 1986, the car carried a sticker price of under fifty-thousand, at $48,200. It was a sporty, luxurious car with numerous standard equipment and produced by a marque that was known for its racing pedigree and commitment to style, performance, and refinement.

This 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560SL Convertible was offered for sale at the 2006 Bonhams & Butterfields auction held at the Quail Lodge in Carmel, California where it was estimated to sell between $15,000 - $20,000. It has been driven a total of 45,279 miles since new. It has a well preserved factory hardtop, original first aid kit, owner's wallet, handbook and more. At auction, the car did find a buyer, and one who was willing to pay a little over the estimated value for this car. The car was sold for $21,060.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2007