The Classic Mercedes-Benz Model Series That's Worth A Small Fortune Now

Only a few names in the automotive world have stood the test of time, with some rising to the rank of legendary. For Mercedes-Benz, that legacy looms large, in the same vein as other auto manufacturers like Ford, which also has classic cars that are now worth a fortune. Mercedes-Benz is known for producing some of the most eye-catching cars in the world, and the R107 Mercedes SL series is no exception. 

In fact, the R107s' prices have generated a lot of buzz across the internet in recent years for just how much people are willing to pay for them. The short answer is: a small fortune. While there are quite a few factors contributing to the inflated price of these vehicles — beyond the name recognition of Mercedes – a lot of this worth is ultimately being driven by the specific years that certain R107 Mercedes SL models hit the road.

Between 1973 and 1980, the first generation R107 was the pinnacle of Mercedes' classic engineering and innovative design. Mercedes added the chassis parts of the midsize W114 Benz model to the same M116 and M117 V8 engines that gave the W108, W109, and W111 series their mechanical fuel injection system. Kept in good condition, these cars can go for about $16,769, with the record sale being $117,600 for a model maintained to peak perfection, according to Classic.com.

The following generation, from 1980-1985, came in the form of the newly reimagined 380SLs, particularly with the 1985 model that perfected climate controls and suspension by adding a smaller SOHC 16-valve V-8 engine with aluminum block and heads, as well as a port fuel injection. Based on Autotrader listings and data, the average price of a 1985 380SL is around $19,432, with the highest sale price in their records sitting at $67,495.

From there, the 1986-1989 560SLs were the crowning achievement for Mercedes-Benz, not only due to the torque capabilities provided by the 5.6L V8 under the hood, but in safety as well. AutoCarGlimpse noted that Mercedes 560SLs from 1989 were one of the first models to debut safety features like ABS and airbags. They can be bought today for between $12,000 and $30,000, depending on condition.

Whether you are someone interested in purchasing a retro vehicle to fix up to perfection, or are looking to sell one that's been sitting in your garage for a while, there are some key tips to keep in mind whether you are buying or selling a classic car. When it comes to buying one, it is important to calculate how much time, effort, and money you are willing to put into restoring an older vehicle to working condition. Additionally, buying a classic automobile is not an investment that you should expect a return on since the future worth of the vehicle is ultimately unknown.

For selling a classic car, make sure to get all necessary paperwork in order before listing the vehicle for sale — which should come only after you've done your homework on the car's specs and properly prepared the car for selling. At that point, you can get in touch with other classic car connoisseurs who will appreciate your retro ride for what it is worth and hopefully buy it so they can continue to admire the vehicle for years to come. Make sure to refresh yourself on how to sign over a car title before meeting with any potential buyers.