UK-based specialist SL Shop, has uncovered a 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL that has covered just 42 miles since rolling off the production line more than four decades ago. Unregistered, unrestored and undriven on UK roads, it could be the lowest-mileage example in existence.
Factory finished in Blue Green Metallic, the car is said to have been specified with every factory option available in period. SL Shop believes this car to be the last original, unregistered R107 Mercedes outside of the marque’s Stuttgart museum.
The car was unearthed in Gnosall, Staffordshire, where it had been stored in a dehumidified garage for the past 42 years. It was purchased new on 30 November 1982 for £24,400 (over £87,000 today) by Mr ough, a watchmaker who’s said to have had an obsessive attention to detail. Interestingly, he crafted a hallmarked sterling silver Mercedes-Benz emblem that still accompanies the vehicle.
Still sporting its original stickers, as well as dealer-applied Waxoyl on the engine and exhaust system, the classic Mercedes is completely free of corrosion. Factory optional extras include air-conditioning, heated seats, ABS, leather, rear seats and metallic paintwork. It is also accompanied by its original dealer paperwork from Carols of Wolverhampton.
‘We first learned of the car 15 years ago, when Mr Hough approached me at the NEC Classic Motor Show,’ revealed SL Shop founder and managing director Sam Bailey. ‘This car will never be offered for sale. Instead, we are creating a dedicated climate-controlled space where this remarkable time capsule will remain on display as a lasting tribute to Mr Hough’s passion.’
It’s unclear why Mr Hough opted never to drive – or even register – his prized Mercedes. It will soon be on display at SL Shop’s Warwickshire headquarters.
‘This 500 SL is the closest reflection of the original R107 SL blueprints – a reference for our technicians and a benchmark for the wider Mercedes-Benz community who continue to preserve these wonderful machines,’ Bailey continued.
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