1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL

Mercedes-Benz replaced its popular 230/250/280SL line of vehicles in 1971 with an all-new design that was modern, yet followed the mold established by its predecessor. The new W107 chassis was longer and wider, with front and rear crumple zones that complied with the latest production standards and regulations. it was, inevitably, heavier than its predecessors. The first of this new line was the 350 SL powered by a V8 engine, and like its forebearers, was more 'sports' than it was 'tourer.' It had an all-independent suspension, similar to that of the 'New Generation' 200/250 models, featuring semi-trailing arms at the rear. Stopping power was provided by four-wheel disc brakes, with the front being ventilated. Standard equipment for this top-of-the-line model included air conditioning, power-assisted steering, power brakes, and an automatic transmission.

The 350SL was soon followed by the larger-engined 450SL, and it would be another three years before the 280SL/SLC returned to the lineup. The 280SL was nearly identical to its larger siblings, although lighter in weight and powered by the same 2.8-liter, twin-overhead-camshaft engine as the other '280' models, delivering 180 horsepower in the SL/SLC. Available transmissions included a four- and five-speed manual, and an automatic.

In North America, the 380 SL (R107) replaced the 450SL from 1981 to 1985. The 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL 2-door roadster was powered by an overhead-cam eight-cylinder engine that displaced 234 cubic-inches and offered 155 horsepower. They had a four-speed automatic gearbox and disc brakes at all four corners. The 380SL Roadster sold for just over $43,000.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011