The R107 (450-380-560) SL, built between 1971 and 1989, were among the last designs from Karl Wilfert and legendary Tech Director, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, who retired in 1972.
Editor's 560SL, top & above, with a current SL and vintage 300SL roadster, at the Sarasota Cafe Racers' Concours Du Vin Classico at the 2010 Florida Winefest .
The 560SL has a bigger 5.6-Liter all-alloy SOHC V8 and was the last, and many feel the best, of the R107 Series that ended with the 1989 model. At 3,800 pounds, it’s certainly not that quick or fast, but the 227-horsepower V8 with four-speed automatic and limited slip 2.47-to-l rear offers a nice level of real world power.
Listing at approximately $60,000-$64,000 when new in 1988-1989, it came stock with ABS, SRS (driver side airbag), full power, Becker stereo and leather. Fit and finish and overall quality are truly outstanding. It was an expensive luxury sports GT that has stood the test of time.
For the complete history of the 107 Series SL, please visit,
http://www.anamera.com/en/editorial/article/news/innovation-at-its-best-the-mercedes-benz-sl-107-model-series/index.html?no_cache=1&tx_ttnews[backPid]=224&cHash=62687953e8