1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL

Description

At the Geneva Motor Show in March 1980, Mercedes-Benz introduced an upgraded version of their 107 series roadsters and coupes, bringing the interior and technology in line with their S-Class sedans. The new model featured a four-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous three-speed version, and was equipped with light-alloy engines similar to those in the S-Class but with slight modifications. The 500 SL, which boasted a 5.0-liter V8 engine carried over from the 450 SLC 5.0, replaced the 450 SL. While external differences from its predecessor were minimal, all SL models now included an aluminum hood, and the 500 SL also came with an aluminum trunk lid and a black plastic rear spoiler. 

Highlights 

• Delivered new in Germany 

• Powered by the potent 231 horsepower “M117” 5.0-liter V8 

• Finished in Signal Red (568) with a Black Leather (271) interior 

• Black (9001) folding fabric soft top 

• The option plate shows that this well-equipped example features: 

  • 240 – Outside temperature indicator 

  • 256 – Limited-slip differential  

  • 440 – Cruise control 

  • 470 – Anti-lock braking system (ABS) 

  • 504 – Outside review mirror, right; electrically controlled, left-hand-drive 

  • 510 – Becker Mexico electronic cassette radio with Kurier/LM/MW/SW/USW bands 

  • 531 – Automatic antenna 

  • 570 – Folding armrest 

  • 581 – Automatic climate control 

  • 590 – Heat-insulating glass with heated rear window in the removeable hardtop 

  • 600 – Headlamp wiper/washer system 

  • 873 – Seat heater for both left and right seats 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report 

Features 

• Repairs performed to this 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL in 2022–2023 include: 

  • Wheels have been refinished 

  • New water pump, thermostat, coolant tank cap and hoses 

  • New fuel pump, accumulator, rubber fuel hoses, tank screen   

  • New drive belts   

  • New battery 

  • Air conditioner refrigerant updated to R134 by previous owner 

  • The driver's seat left side back bolster has been reupholstered  

• “Kindersitze” rear seat 

• Burl wood trim 

• Fog lights 

• Tachometer 

• Oil pressure gauge 

• Power assisted brakes 

• Dual bucket seats 

• Power steering 

• Locking glove box 

• Door mounted map pockets 

• Adjustable headrests 

• Padded sun visors 

• Carpet lined truck 

Known Imperfections 

• The headlamp wipers were removed when the headlights were federalized with U.S. market lights 

• Minor paint imperfections pictured on the right front funder and on the rear of the car around the hardtop 

• Minor interior wear and cracking of the wood trim finish 

• Small spots on seats and floor mats 

Included 

• Signal Red (568) removable hardtop  

• Limited service records 

• Owner’s manuals 

• Service manual 

• Radio manuals 

• Service directory – Europe 

• Hard top removal/installation tool 

Ownership History 

Originally hailing from Germany, this 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL imported to the United States in the spring of 1985. The CARFAX Vehicle History Report begins in 2001 in Texas and continues showing inspections and registration renewals until May 2024 when a new owner was reported in Arizona. It has been driven approximately 1,200 miles since. The odometer was replaced when federalized on 19 April 1985 and the 47,581 miles shown is correct.