The discovery of this 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL 42 Miles from new is a moment of significant importance for classic car enthusiasts. It represents more than just a low-mileage car; it is an authentic time capsule. This particular R107 model has never been registered for road use, remaining untouched since it left the Mercedes-Benz factory. The stunning Blue Green Metallic finish and immaculate condition tell a remarkable story of dedication. SLSHOP believes this may be the only unrestored, unregistered factory-new R107 SL outside of the Mercedes-Benz Museum itself. Its originality provides an unparalleled reference point for restoration.
The Incredible Journey of the 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL
The story of this pristine 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL begins in Gnosall, Staffordshire, with its original owner, Mr. Hough. On November 30th, 1982, the successful watchmaker paid £24,400 for the car. This was a substantial sum, equivalent to over £87,000 today. Instead of driving it home, he had the car trailered directly to his residence. This single decision set the stage for four decades of preservation, essentially freezing the car in time.
Meticulous Preservation in Showroom State
Mr. Hough meticulously stored the car in a heated, de-humidified garage, protecting it from the elements. His obsessive attention to detail, honed by his watchmaking skills, ensured its factory-new state. The car still features original factory stickers throughout the vehicle. You can even see the original Waxoyl preservation coating on the engine and exhaust components. This level of preservation is incredibly rare for any classic car, especially one over forty years old.
Factory Options and Originality Details
This 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL 42 Miles is a right-hand drive model loaded with every available factory option. These costly extras added £2,331 to the original price, the equivalent of over £8,360 today. The vehicle came equipped with desirable features for the time. These include air conditioning, heated seats, and the cutting-edge Anti-lock Braking System, or ABS. The interior also features leather upholstery and the optional rear seats.
Unused Documentation and Unique Touches
The car’s history includes its original sales documentation from Carols of Wolverhampton. The incomplete V55/5 registration forms confirm the car was never registered for road use. Mr. Hough also applied his unique skills to the vehicle. He created a hallmarked sterling silver Mercedes-Benz badge, which still accompanies the car proudly. These small details underscore the depth of the owner’s passion and preservation efforts.
Engine, Power, and The 500SL Performance
The 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL is powered by the robust 5.0-liter M117 V8 engine, a highly regarded unit of the R107 generation. In European specification, this engine typically produced around 240 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an automatic transmission. This provided the luxury roadster with impressive performance for the early 1980s. The 500SL was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.8 seconds. Its top speed was rated at about 140 mph. For this specific car, the engine is entirely factory fresh, complete with its original protective wax, having performed only the briefest of journeys.
A Lasting Tribute and Reference Point
SLSHOP Founder Sam Bailey confirmed that the company first learned of this unique 500SL fifteen years ago. They eventually became its custodian, fulfilling a previous agreement with Mr. Hough. Significantly, the company has stated that the car will never be offered for sale. Instead, it will be placed in a dedicated climate-controlled space for display. This remarkable car will serve as a lasting tribute to Mr. Hough’s incredible commitment to preservation. It will also be an invaluable reference point for technicians and restorers working on other R107 models.
Summary of the Time-Capsule 500SL
This unregistered 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL 42 Miles example is a truly astonishing discovery. Its condition is factory new, thanks to the meticulous efforts of its single owner over four decades. From the factory stickers to the original Waxoyl, every detail confirms its time-warp status. The car represents a pristine, unrestored example of the powerful R107 500SL model, complete with all its period options. It serves as a benchmark for the model and will now be preserved and displayed for future generations to admire. This 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL 42 Miles is an unparalleled piece of automotive history.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: SLSHOP
