Mercedes-Benz 500 SL Convertible (R107) – 1986
European Delivery Original Character V8 Grand Touring Icon
Some cars don’t age. The Mercedes-Benz R107 SL is one of those rare machines that feels just as relevant today as it did in the 1980s. Elegant without being flashy, powerful without being aggressive, and engineered with a level of quality that has become legendary.
This 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL Convertible is a particularly desirable example. Originally European-delivered, built to full European specifications, it later spent part of its life in the United States before returning to Europe several years ago. Today, it presents as a super original, well-cared-for car, clearly maintained by owners who understood what they had.
By the mid-1980s, the R107 platform was fully evolved. Mercedes-Benz had refined the chassis, drivetrain and comfort features over nearly 15 years of production. The 500 SL, powered by the renowned 5.0-liter V8, sat at the top of the European SL range and delivered effortless performance combined with long-distance comfort. This was not a sports car in the modern sense — it was a high-speed luxury roadster, built to cross countries with ease.
Among all R107 variants, the European-spec 500 SL is widely regarded as the most sought-after version. Lighter, more powerful and more refined than its US counterparts, it represents the R107 in its purest form. Over the past years, values of original European 500 SLs have risen noticeably faster than other 107 models, particularly cars that remain unmodified and properly maintained.
It is no coincidence that these cars were favored by diplomats, industrialists and long-distance drivers. They were built to last — and many clearly still do.
With only 73,766 miles on the odometer, this 500 SL shows exactly what you want to see in an R107: honesty, originality, and condition that reflects careful ownership rather than over-restoration.
The color combination is especially elegant, with a beautifully matched blue exterior and blue leather interior, giving the car a timeless and understated presence. The interior feels correct and authentic — not overdone, not tired — exactly as it should.
Technically, the car has been very well maintained, with clear recent investment:
• Major service completed in August 2025, including a complete renewal of the brake system and suspension (approx. €3,200)
• Dutch technical inspection (APK) valid until July 2026
• Strong, smooth-running V8 with excellent road manners
• Maintains original European character and specifications
This is not a “shiny but tired” SL. This is a car that drives as confidently as it looks.
Behind the wheel, the 500 SL delivers exactly what made the model famous: effortless torque, refined cruising, and a sense of solidity that modern cars rarely match. The steering is relaxed but precise, the suspension absorbs distance with ease, and the V8 provides a smooth, muscular soundtrack without ever being intrusive.
Roof down, this SL is at its best — perfect for summer touring, relaxed weekend drives, or elegant arrivals at events. It’s a car that doesn’t demand attention yet always receives it.
Values of good, original R107 SLs have been steadily rising over the past years — especially European-spec cars that haven’t been modified or over-restored. This example sits in a sweet spot: highly usable, properly maintained, and still authentic.
Whether you’re looking for a classic you can actually drive and enjoy, a stylish grand touring convertible, or a solid addition to a serious collection, this 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL represents a very safe and enjoyable entry point into one of Mercedes’ most respected model lines.
A true classic, ready for many more years — and many more sunny miles.
This Mercedes has Dutch paperwork which makes it easy to register in any EU country.
Call 0031623679846 for more information.
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