Description
Mercedes-Benz 380 SL | 1980
Highlights:
- 3,8 Ltr. V8 petrol engine with automatic transmission
- Original paintwork with restored and Dinitrol-treated underbody
- Comes with hardtop and new soft-top
- Valid technical inspection certificate
The seller offers for sale a 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL cabriolet, powered by a 3.8-litre V8 petrol engine paired with an automatic transmission. This SL combines classic styling with the solid engineering of the R107 series. It is equipped with both a removable hardtop and a newly fitted soft-top, giving year-round driving flexibility. The underbody has been fully restored and treated with Dinitrol for protection. According to the seller, the vehicle drives well, with smooth gear changes, and has covered only 12,000 km since 2020, as documented by the included Carpass. It is offered for sale due to lack of storage space.
The car retains its original paint finish, which displays some wear and use consistent with age. There are traces of rust on the wheel arches and exhaust, and some exterior panels have visible blemishes and signs of past use. The vehicle has had damage in the past.
The interior is generally in good condition, although the rear seat cushions are in need of replacement. The dashboard and front seating area remain presentable. Mechanically, the vehicle is described as being in good condition, starting without difficulty, free of smoke or unusual noises, and with a gearbox that operates smoothly. The car has a valid inspection and is reported to be free of major structural rust, aside from the areas noted. There is mention of a small hole in the exhaust.
The Mercedes-Benz 380 SL is part of the R107 generation, produced between 1971 and 1989, and remains one of the most recognisable Mercedes roadsters. Designed to replace the W113 “Pagoda”, the R107 brought more modern styling, improved safety, and greater comfort. The 380 SL, introduced in the early 1980s, featured the M116 V8 engine, offering a balance of performance and reliability. The car was well regarded for its combination of open-top driving enjoyment and grand touring capability, aided by the option of a removable hardtop. Its robust build quality and timeless design have made the R107 a sought-after classic.
The fact that this example is a Belgian-delivered car, still in original paint and with a restored underbody, makes it appealing to buyers looking for authenticity. While this 380 SL shows some cosmetic imperfections and age-related wear, it remains a usable and mechanically sound example that can be enjoyed immediately, with scope for cosmetic refurbishment if desired. Collectors and enthusiasts often value such cars for their driving character and the classic Mercedes V8 experience.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
2. Fair: Noticeable dents and scratches; body panels may need to be replaced and repainted.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Antwerp province, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
