1985 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 500SL

KEY FACTS This Mercedes-Benz 500SL is a desirable modern classic roadster, which has spent much of its life in a dry Middle East climate. Under the bonnet is the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8, which produces 241bhp and drives the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. First registered in 1985, this left-hand-drive example was delivered new to Bahrain, where it was reportedly used by a senior diplomat at the British Consulate. It was subsequently imported to the UK and registered in 2018. The odometer shows 18,172 km, though the gauge has previously been replaced. The car’s total mileage is believed to be 86,461 km. EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES This 500 SL is believed to have left the factory in Pajett Red, but it was evidently changed to Nautic Blue while in Bahrain. This is complemented by a beige MB-Tex interior, punctuated by burr walnut veneered trim. The car has a black convertible hood and the original hard top with a storage stand is also present. Equipment includes electric windows, electric door mirrors and a period-correct Becker Europa radio/cassette player. It rides on a set of 15-inch, eight-hole alloy wheels. Accompanied by two keys. CONDITION Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: the car was fully resprayed in 2017, and the Nautic Blue paintwork has some minor marks on the lower front bumper and small marks and scratches on the rear panel, caused by a rubbing hardtop. Inside, the carpets have some fading, there is a split in the top of the dashboard, cracking on the gear selector knob, and the driver’s wing mirror glass is cracked. There are also tears in the vinyl on the driver’s door card and the passenger door pocket, and some of the fuse cover’s clips are missing. SERVICE HISTORY It was most recently serviced in April 2025 at an indicated 18,096 km. which included a small service, engine tune, and replacement of the washer pump and battery. During the sel