The Mercedes-Benz 560 SL Is Robust, Reliable, and Delightfully Analog

Unquestionably the most famous model line in the history of the Mercedes-Benz family is the SL, which began life in 1952 as a real race car true to its name, Sport-Licht (Sport Light). The marque’s business-savvy United States importer Max Hoffman urged the factory—looking to broaden its reach—to build a sporting street version of the racer for his relatively untapped market. The 300 SL “Gullwing” was born in 1954, and the rest, as they say, is SL history.

The 300 SL Roadster replaced the coupe in 1957, preceded by the 190 SL, a smaller “look-alike” convertible introduced in 1955. Both models soldiered on through 1963, but these were essentially handmade cars and couldn’t possibly keep up with Mercedes-Benz’s market expansion and need for volume production.

The 230 SL was the answer, an altogether more sober design made through 1971 as the 280 SL. The 230, 250, and 280 variants looked nothing like their predecessors, but were excellent cars that ushered in the third-generation SL, internally called the R107. That first V-8-powered SL might be called the Mercedes Methuselah, because it lived with essentially the same shape and style through 1989. By the end of its run that year, the 560 SL, at close to 3,700 pounds, was anything but “Sport Light.” The increased weight, though, was mostly irrelevant for a two-seat, luxury GT convertible that was as solid as the Brandenburg Gate and as reliable as a hammer. And therein lies the charm of the 560 SL, and its collectability.

In the spirit of a tank, the R107 series SLs are more robustly built than any convertible of their day. Their excellent German craftsmanship defines the stereotype, with safety, reliability, and reassuring road manners that come along for the ride. The removable metal hardtop makes the SL a particularly versatile vehicle, and some enthusiasts (this observer included) like it better with its hat on. Inside, comfortable seats and plenty of space for two occupants makes the SL perfect for real road trips. And, while not opulent in the sense of the hand-built 280 SE, the 560 SL was given an interior beautifully detailed and appointed.

The R107 series of SL was introduced as the 350 SL in 1971, and was offered in a staggering number of models for European and rest-of-the-world markets in subsequent years. North America had it simpler, with the 450 SL being offered from 1972 through 1980, the 380 SL from 1981 through 1985, and the 560 SL from 1986 through 1989. All had a SOHC V-8 engine with a cast-iron block of 4.5-, 3.8- or 5.6-liter displacement, respectively. The latter two models used a four-speed automatic transmission. But while they mostly look alike, not all SLs are created equal.

The 450 SL is now an old car that will require some thoughtful upkeep, while the 380 SL is an anemic performer (due to emissions regulations) that limits power and acceleration to near embarrassment. An example from the final model is far and away the one to own, driving like a real modern car but with a purely analog essence. Its 227 hp and 287 ft lbs of torque are certainly adequate, making the 560 SL the perfect sporty cruiser for an elegant outing for two.

Values have risen sharply over the last few years, but it’s still possible to find a 560 SL in good condition for about $25,000. Examples in excellent condition command around $60,000. Some SLs, purchased and parked by their Palm Springs owners and rarely driven during their lifetimes, remain in almost as-new condition, and those, as well as low-mileage concours creampuffs, can top $150,000.

With nearly 50,000 examples made and more than 46,000 of those sold in the United States over four years, the 560 SL offers a happy hunting ground for drivers seeking a classic convertible with the creature comforts of a near-contemporary car.

Click here for more photos of this 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL.