““One day you’ll say: I bought the rarest R107 V8 when I had the chance.”
This is South Africa’s only facelift 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500SL currently for sale — and what a fine example it is. Finished in its factory DB147 Arctic White over Alpaca Grey leather, this roadster is not only beautifully preserved but historically significant.
Imported new by Mercedes-Benz SA in one of just two model years (1988–1989) before the R129 took over, this car is one of only 11,812 500SLs built in 9 years of production — making it rarer than 95% of all R107s ever built.
Mechanical & History:
• Original matching numbers engine (117.964)
• 180,000 km with service book and invoices
• Full service history, originally maintained by Cargo Auckland Park
• Previous owner: Mr. Levy of eMalahleni, since 1989
• Includes original McCarthy dealer decal, matching hardtop, and roadworthy
• Had a front bumper bashing in the 1990s, but was professionally and properly repaired
Factory Features:
• Ice-cold aircon
• Rear seats with seat belts
• Becker radio with working electric aerial
• Uncracked dashboard (extremely rare)
• Original carpets and leather seats – never redone
• Central locking & cruise control fully functional
• Pristine lenses, rubber, and trim throughout
• 5 brand-new Dunlop tyres on original 15” 7J Gullideckel wheels
Rarity & Significance:
• Only 500SL models came with the factory rubber boot spoiler
• ABS brakes, upgraded suspension, bucket seats, scoop bumper, leather wheel & gear knob — just a few of over 100 updates over pre-facelift models
• Never offered in USA, unlike the 560SL which is far more common
This is a proper investment-grade collector’s Mercedes that represents the end of an era. Beautifully preserved, extremely rare, and appreciating year-on-year.
Located in Shere, Pretoria East – Viewings by appointment only
Contact
Dehan La Grange
:
dehan@watswaaijy.co.za | 0823867184″