1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL is part of the R107 series, which was produced from 1971 to 1989. This generation of SL (Sport-Leicht) roadsters is renowned for its blend of luxury, performance, and timeless design. The 380SL debuted in 1980 as a replacement for the 450SL, featuring a 3.8-liter V8 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. While the engine was slightly smaller than its predecessor, it offered improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. 

In 1981, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new aluminum block for the 380SL’s V8. The 1981 model retained the SL’s reputation for solid build quality and elegant styling, with features like a removable hard top, convertible soft top, and leather-trimmed interior. 

This 1981 380SL is powered by a 3.8-liter V8 paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Finished in black over black leather upholstery, the car has been fitted with a replacement convertible soft top and is accompanied by a removable hard top. The window sticker lists optional equipment and shows that this R107 was delivered new to Atlanta Classic Cars Inc. of Decatur, Georgia. 

Highlights 

• Powered by a 3.8-liter V8 

• Four-speed automatic transmission 

• Finished in black (040) with a replacement black convertible soft top  

• Black (231) leather upholstery 

• Removable black hard top 

• Window sticker and service records 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report 

Features  

• Silver-finished 14″ Bundt alloy wheels 

• Sailun Atrezzo SH408 tires measuring 205/70 

• Front fog lights 

• Dual side mirrors with polished caps 

• Stainless-steel exhaust components  

• Cabin accented with wood veneer 

• Automatic climate control 

• Pioneer CD stereo 

• Central locking 

Known Imperfections  

• Dents, areas of rust, and other imperfections in the finish and trim 

• Corrosion on the underbody components 

• Crack in the hardtop rear window  

• The odometer is inoperable

• Seller reports a transmission fluid leak 

• Carpet is worn on the left footwell  

• Cracked upholstery on driver’s seat lower cushion

Included  

• Window sticker 

• Service booklet and records 

• Two ignition keys and one valet key  

Ownership History 

The seller acquired this 1981 380SL in March 2025, and reports that they “purchased it from the second owner who cherished the car and kept it beautiful. The engine purrs and starts right up.” Recent service is said to have included performing an oil change and replacing the tires.  

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places the convertible in Georgia, Florida, and New Hampshire from an initial entry in May 1990.  

This R107 is offered with a clean New Hampshire title in the seller’s name.