California-Kept with original owner for 35 years, beautifully maintained example

The Mercedes-Benz R107 series, produced from 1971 to 1989, remains one of the brand's longest-running and most successful single model lines. Designed as a luxury grand tourer to replace the smaller "Pagoda" SL, the R107 introduced a new standard of comfort, robust build quality, and safety technology, featuring a reinforced passenger cabin, crumple zones, and the iconic "roadster with an optional hardtop" design. Its production run spanned nearly two decades, cementing its status as the quintessential symbol of 1980s luxury and success.

The 560SL was the final and most potent iteration of the R107 chassis, introduced in 1986 exclusively for the US, Japanese, and Australian markets to mitigate the effects of stricter emissions regulations on power. It represented the ultimate expression of the series, combining the classic open-top style with the decade's highest performance. The 560SL was powered by a substantial 5.5-liter M117 V8 engine, delivering 227 horsepower and significantly improved torque and acceleration compared to its predecessors. It also incorporated a new rear suspension design, standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), and a limited-slip differential for superior handling and safety.

This specific example is a highly preserved and low-mileage 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560SL. The car was completed in June 1986 and delivered new on August 1, 1986, by House of Imports in Los Angeles. This roadster was retained by its original Southern California owner until 2021, a period of nearly 35 years. The meticulous care ensures the car presents in an exceptionally preserved condition today since our acquisition of this example.

The exterior is finished in the striking original factory color of Signal Red (568), a quintessential choice for the period that perfectly complements the robust styling of the US-spec quad headlamps and energy-absorbing bumpers. The car includes both the folding soft top and the color-matched removable factory hardtop. Inside, the cabin retains its original Parchment (275) leather interior, which remains in outstanding condition.

As the final and most luxuriously equipped variant, the 560SL came standard with features considered cutting-edge for the era, including a driver-side SRS airbag, automatic climate control, cruise control, power windows, and a Becker AM/FM cassette stereo. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a smooth 4-Speed Automatic Transmission. This particular example is offered with its original owner's manuals in the pouch, original keys, the factory data card, and its original California license plates, making it a highly documented, quality example of Mercedes-Benz's flagship 80s convertible.