
Buyer Resources
- 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL
- 3.8L Naturally Aspirated M116 V8
- Bosch K-Jetronic Mechanical Fuel Injection
- 4-Speed Automatic
- RWD
- Silver Blue Metallic Exterior
- Blue Interior
- Blue Convertible Soft Top
- Body-Colored Removable Hardtop
- 14" Bundt-Style Alloy Wheels
- Automatic Climate Control
- Cruise Control
- Zebrano Woodgrain Trim
Extras Included in the Sale
- Hardtop Stand
The Mercedes-Benz SL has long been associated with elegant open-top motoring, and the R107 generation remains one of the most recognizable expressions of that philosophy. Produced from 1971 through 1989, the R107 enjoyed an exceptionally long production run, becoming a defining symbol of Mercedes-Benz luxury during the 1970s and 1980s. The 380 SL joined the American lineup for the 1981 model year, offering smooth V8 performance, timeless styling, and the solid engineering that helped establish the SL's reputation as a prestigious grand touring convertible. This 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL, showing approximately 70,365 miles, is presented in an attractive Silver Blue Metallic exterior finish complemented by a Blue interior and matching Blue convertible soft top. It also comes equipped with a body-colored removable hardtop, classic 14-inch Bundt-style alloy wheels, automatic climate control, cruise control, and Zebrano woodgrain trim. With its coordinated color scheme, versatile dual-roof configuration, and traditional V8 powertrain, this 380 SL captures the sophisticated character that continues to make the R107 a favorite among classic Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts.
Exterior and Interior
The exterior of this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL is finished in Silver Blue Metallic, an elegant period-correct shade that perfectly complements the R107's understated styling and distinctive proportions. Its long hood, compact passenger compartment, and clean body lines reflect the timeless design philosophy that defined Mercedes-Benz grand touring cars of the era. This example features a Blue convertible soft top for open-air enjoyment, along with a body-colored removable hardtop that transforms the roadster into a more enclosed grand tourer. The combination of these two roof configurations was one of the R107's defining attractions, allowing owners to enjoy the car throughout changing seasons. Completing its classic appearance is a set of 14-inch Bundt-style alloy wheels, a signature Mercedes-Benz design that remains closely associated with the brand's most recognizable models from this period. The interior of this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL is finished in Blue, creating a cohesive and particularly appealing color combination with its Silver Blue Metallic exterior and matching convertible soft top. The cabin reflects Mercedes-Benz's traditional approach to luxury, emphasizing straightforward ergonomics, tasteful materials, and a driver-focused layout. Zebrano woodgrain trim introduces a warm, sophisticated contrast to the Blue interior, reinforcing the upscale atmosphere of this classic German roadster. Automatic climate control provides convenient temperature regulation, while cruise control enhances comfort during extended highway journeys. With its intimate two-seat configuration and thoughtfully appointed cabin, the 380 SL offers the relaxed and refined driving environment that helped make the R107 one of Mercedes-Benz's most enduring grand touring models.
Engine
Powering this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SL is a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated M116 V8 engine, part of Mercedes-Benz's long-running family of overhead-camshaft eight-cylinder powerplants. Featuring Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, the M116 delivers smooth, consistent power with an emphasis on refinement and effortless cruising rather than aggressive acceleration. In its U.S.-market configuration, the 1983 380 SL was rated at approximately 155 horsepower and 196 lb-ft of torque, providing the relaxed performance characteristic of Mercedes-Benz luxury convertibles of the era. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and complementing the car's grand touring personality. The R107's traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout further contributes to its balanced and predictable road manners. Combining classic V8 engineering, mechanical fuel injection, and an automatic transmission, this 380 SL delivers the traditional Mercedes-Benz driving experience that continues to attract enthusiasts seeking a refined and timeless European roadster.
Inspection
Now here’s a lovely cruiser for someone to enjoy, whether they’re sixteen or sixty years old. This 1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL Roadster hails from the hallowed R107 generation of Mercedes-Benz’s SL-Class luxury grand tourer. This generation was made between 1971 and 1989, and of the 300,000 plus cars that were made, over two thirds came to North America. The car was a cult classic with the rich and famous, or even infamous. Now, cars like this are becoming fantastic classics to own and drive, as well as the perfect way to experience a classic Mercedes-Benz drive without giving up too many comfort features. For example, this 91,112-mile machine rocks a 4-speed automatic transmission, which was one of the key upgrades for the 1981 model year. It’s also got a Blaupunkt San Francisco SQR 28 cassette radio player, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V8, and is up for grabs in Montclair, New Jersey.
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