1980 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Euro 380SLC like a 500SLC Coupe

3.8 liter V8 218hp

Automatic

10702512000125

Clear

Gasoline

0 0 1 391 2232 Pro-Tech Advisors, Inc. 18 5 2618 14.0 Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE Here is an ultra rare European model 380SLC, very similar to the highly coveted European spec 500SLC. Manufactured for only two years, the European model 380SLC started production in March 1980 and features a 218 hp engine, only 27 hp less than the beastly 500SLC. This all-aluminum V8 (Mercedes designation M116.960) was never sold in the United States and features special cylinder heads, oversize valves and dual performance camshafts and was delivered new with no catalytic converter. Unfortunately, US-bound 380SLCs were plagued with heavy emissions regulations and the power on these cars is a mere 155 hp. US models also had imposing, large bumpers that can never match the elegance of the European, thin chrome bumpers. Unlike US models, this engine came with a dual row, roller timing chain to handle the high power output, not the single row chain that was so prone to the failure in this country’s 380SLs & SLCs. Some 62,888 SLCs were produced from 1971 to 1981 of which only 3,789 were 380SLCs – as a non-US car, this car comes from a small subset of that number making it extremely rare. Also, it’s estimated that less than 2,500 SLCs exist today worldwide. Very similar to the beloved R107 convertible, the SLC was a more practical car, able to seat four people comfortably. The SLC was meant to be a replacement for the much-loved 1960s W111 280SE coupe, a grand traditional coupe with an upright grille. Both cars being pillarless coupes, the SLC was aimed more towards being a sports car more than a grand tourer. The SLC remained the most expensive model in the Mercedes lineup until it was replaced by the C126 S-class derived 380/500SEC models for 1982. This car was lovingly cared for by a now elderly, South Florida couple and has traveled only 75K miles. Finished in Signal Red, the paint is smooth, shiny and dent free, save for some minor parking lot chips, but hardly noticeable. There is no rust on the front frame rails, a common fatal problem, and also none on the jack points. The chrome around the car is not pitted and beautifully deep and rich, not faded or oxidized. The best part about the car is it has the optional velour interior, an option at the time costing as much as leather. Most of the 1960s 600 limousines had velour as it was considered to be the ultimate in luxury, especially in cold climates. This car runs strong and is far different than the sluggish US 380 models. The only exterior difference from the 500SLC is that it does not have the black rubber rear spoiler and personally, I prefer models without it. When surviving 380SLCs pop up for sale, almost exclusively in Europe, they are typically offered at prices from $15-25K. Please inquire with any questions.