1988 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

560SL Convertible

5.6 Engine

Automatic

WDBBA48D3JA080294

Clear

Gasoline

1988 Mercedes 560SL - 71,000 Miles! Desirable Desert Taupe Metallic w/ Crème Beige Leather; Two Tops (Brand New Convertible Top 71,000 Actual Miles; Regularly Serviced w/ Records; Totally Clean CARFAX Original Manuals; Very Well-Maintained, Extremely Clean 560SL Ready to Drive Anywhere __________________________ NOTE: Our listings are rather lengthy. They not only describe this particular car but also some history of the make/model, considerations in buying a classic car and facts about our firm. However, we continually hear from out-of-state / out-of- country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read the full listing, please scan the DETAILS below along with viewing the PHOTOGRAPHS at the bottom. If you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Mercedes and answer any questions over the telephone, including our "Buy it Now" policy. Yes, the 560SL can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE CLOSE TO 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THIS MERCEDES, BUT WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN ON eBay TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THEM, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A DIRECT LINK. NOTE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBay POLICY FOR US TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF ANY PART OF THE MERCEDES. ALL OF OUR PHOTOS ARE TAKEN IN NATURAL LIGHT AND WE DO NOT "PHOTO-SHOP" OR TOUCH-UP THE PHOTOS IN ANY WAY. INTRODUCTION This car is offered at a realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information and history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 21+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 850 positive eBay feedback responses. Please keep in mind that we will gladly... 1. Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451). 2. Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices. 3. Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment. 4. Provide feedback from previous buyers, and specific references for vehicle purchases in your area (we also ask that you view our detailed eBay feedback by clicking on the number to the right of the eBay user name) 5. Offer additional information including specific photographs or clarification of any part of our description of the vehicle Thank you again, please let me know if I can be of assistance. Happy "eBaying"! Paul R. Wankle, Pres. Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA 925-846-1451 DETAILS-THIS PARTICULAR 1988 MERCEDES-BENZ 560SL We are regularly asked to locate very well maintained "honest" all original low mileage examples of the desirable Mercedes SL cars, especially the 560SL, that many consider the "Best of the Best" in the class of 1980's Mercedes two-seaters. Frankly, many of the SL cars on the market today are not cars that we would consider worthy of consideration for our customers that are looking for high quality, pre-owned Mercedes convertibles. More often than not the available SL cars have very high mileage and have not received the necessary maintenance. That is certainly not the case with this particular SL. This Mercedes is a very nice example of a pre-owned Mercedes SL with low mileage, beautiful original paint, factory hardtop and a new Hartz canvas convertible top. HISTORY This particular Mercedes 560SL was manufactured in November 1987. The 560SL has enjoys a history of ownership by a prominent physician for over 22 years and was a car that was used as an "occasional use" vehicle. The low mileage (just over 2,500~ miles per year) supports its limited use. Most recently, the car was owned by an elderly gentleman who was a long time classic car enthusiast and collector of a wide range of specialty vehicles in California. The CARFAX report supports the ownership history along with a clean history relative to accidents, theft, odometer rollback, flood, and other negative activity. The car has a clear California title and, for California buyers, has the benefit of a recent registration that is valid through July, 2016. When delivered new, the Mercedes carried an MSRP of $64,000+. In the 27 years of ownership, the car has been driven a documented 71,000 miles, an average of just over 2600 miles per year! With a car of this pedigree, the buyer can anticipate many future years and miles of pleasurable driving. MAINTENANCE This car has been regularly serviced as verified by the included Maintenance Booklet with records through 59K miles plus individual receipts since then by the current owner. The most recent service, as documented by included receipts, is as follows: - 02/23/15; 69,597 miles--oil and filter, transmission fluid change plus new filter and gasket - 08/06/14; 68,502 miles--Bosch spark plugs, distributor cap and rotor, all new belts - 07/29/14-New battery - 07/15/14; 67,547 miles-New Bridgestone tires w/ 80K warranty, 4-wheel alignment, wiper blades, air filter, air pump filter - 07/09/14; 67,541 miles-Passed California smog test DOCUMENTATION - Original 560SL Owner's Manual - Electronic Radio Operations Guide - Operation and Care of SL Tops brochure - Mercedes-Benz Dealer Directory - Roadside Assistance Program brochure - Owner's Service & Warranty Policy - Maintenance Booklet w/ entries through 59K miles - Additional individual maintenance receipts for recent years - CARFAX report MECHANICAL - 5.6 liter light alloy V8 engine, 2 single overhead cams, 5 main bearings, 227 hp / 279 lb-ft torque - KE III Electromechanical fuel injection - 4-speed automatic transmission w/ torque converter - Limited slip differential - Unitized all-steel body - Power assisted steering - Cruise control - 100 ampere Mercedes-Benz battery in enclosed case in trunk - Fully independent suspension both front and rear; gas-pressurized shocks; coil springs; anti-roll bars - Power assisted 4-wheel disc brakes; fronts ventilated - Anti-lock braking system (ABS) - 205/65R15 Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus radial tires, new 2500 miles ago, 11/32" remaining tread SAFETY AND SECURITY - Supplemental restraint system (air bags) - 3-point seat belts w/ inertial reels, front emergency tensioning retractors - Seat belts added to rear shelf area for short transport of small children - Head restraints - Anti-theft alarm system w/ radio theft deterrent EXTERIOR - Desirable Desert Taupe Metallic paint in excellent condition, twin pin stripes down both sides - Hard top in matching Desert Taupe Metallic w/ electrically heated rear window - Brand new dark brown soft top - Tinted glass all around in excellent condition - Automatic radio antenna on left rear quarter - Dual outside rear view mirrors - German precision fit of all body panels - Both doors, hood and trunk lid open and close smartly - Aerodynamic halogen head and fog lamps - Excellent grille - Excellent stainless steel trim around all windows, on the hard top and dual side strips - Excellent bumpers w/ good chrome - Black rubber body side moulding atop one stainless steel side trim piece protects from door dings - Black rubber on ends of both bumpers and bumper guards in fine condition - All body tags match as original to this car INTERIOR - Crème beige leather seating in good condition but does show use - Fully adjustable bucket seats & head restraints - Nice off-white headliner in hard top - Roof mounted assist grips on hard top - Beige carpeting throughout in good condition, matching beige mats - Excellent beige door panels w/ map pockets - Black seat belts - Dent-free, shiny sill plates - Excellent black, no-cracks padded dash - Wood trim on console - Leather-covered steering wheel and gear selector - Automatic climate control - Central locking - Electrically operated windows - 2-speed windshield wipers w/ mist control - Electronic AM/FM stereo radio w/ cassette player - Front center folding armrest - Tachometer/quartz chronometer - Dual illuminated vanity mirrors - Factory first aid kit in rack behind passenger seat - Trunk contains original full size spare tire and tools that have never been used - Excellent beige carpet throughout trunk COSMETIC CONDITION The Desert Taupe Metallic paint is original and shows very nicely. The twin pinstripes down the sides add a nice touch. There are no body dings/dents and very few paint chips. There is one very minor, light scratch below the driver's side door lock but the car remains incredibly free from cosmetic imperfections or anything that detracts from the overall appearance of the Mercedes. The matching factory hard top is in fantastic condition as is the lovely "headliner" and all of the exterior trim. The dark brown factory soft top is brand new, installed this month. All stainless trim is in excellent shape. Bumper chrome is excellent. All 4 Mercedes wheels are in virtually perfect condition and have not been re-painted or refurbished remaining "Mercedes original." They are free from the characteristic clear coat issues; show no signs of "curbing" or other damage. Tires are quality Bridgestone with less than 5,000 miles. All of the glass is excellent and carries the Mercedes factory logo. The rubber on the bumpers and body side mouldings is excellent. The crème beige leather seating shows only fine patina of leather but is totally free from any rips, tears or damage. The beige carpeting is all very nice as are the beige door panels. The black padded dash is excellent and crack-free. The black leather-wrapped steering wheel is nice. There are some very slight signs of degradation of the door weatherstrip (a few inches where the outside cover has deteriorated) adjacent to the A-pillars. The engine compartment is extremely clean and free from any accumulation of grease or dirt. It has not been detailed but, instead, very well maintained and it shows. The trunk is fully carpeted in beige and appears as new. In fact, the spare has never been removed (except for photos for this sale) and the same is true with the tools which remain not only in their original canvas bad, but also in the outer plastic wrap as they came from the factory. The underside of the car is not detailed and shows patina and road surface consistent with the age of the 560SL. However, with the exception of extremely light surface discoloration of the exhaust, there are no signs that the car has seen considerable exposure to the elements. The frame, floors and other sub-structures are as solid as a rock, straight and damage free. DRIVABILITY The car runs and drives as expected for a well maintained, low mileage Mercedes. It starts immediately when cold, and runs and drives extremely well. The idle is smooth and the car has been totally reliable. The Mercedes doesn't exhibit any issues, runs cool even on the warmest days, and has excellent brakes and steering. The 560SL has disc brakes that stop the car straight and sure. The parking brake works properly. The transmission is free from any issues and there are no signs of slipping, noise, or shifting issues. The remaining drive-line components are equally as good. The oil pressure read is excellent, the temperature gauge stays in the lower/middle few hash marks (even on hot California days), and the charging system is excellent. The air conditioning is fully functional and blows cold. Also, the climate control / heating & defrosting system is completely functional. Of course, the electrical system is also 100% operational including the cruise control and even the interior lighting on the hardtop! OTHER - Passed the California required safety inspection for working wipers, turn signals, lights, brakes, etc. - Current California registration and clear California title - Average annual mileage only 2,600 miles - Clean CARFAX; no accidents SPECIFICATIONS OF THE 1988 MERCEDES-BENZ 560SL - Length 180.3" - Wheelbase 96.7" - Width 70.5" - Height 51.1" - Turning circle 35.2' - Curb weight 3705 lb. - 5547 cc V8 engine w/ 2 single overhead cams, 5 main bearings, 227 hp / 279 lb-ft. torque - KE III electromechanical fuel injection - 4-speed automatic transmission w/ torque converter - Rear axle ratio 2.47:1 - Unitized all-steel body - Front suspension-independent w/ single upper control arm & single lower A-frame, coil springs, anti-roll bar, gas-pressurized shocks - Rear suspension-independent, semi-trailing arms, 4 constant velocity joints, coil springs, anti-roll bar, gas-pressurized shocks, limited slip differential - Disc brakes all around, front ventilated, anti-lock braking system - Fuel 22.5 gal (plus 3 gal reserve), premium - EPA mileage ratings 14 mpg city/17 mpg highway HISTORY OF THE MERCEDES-BENZ 560SL The Mercedes-Benz SL is a grand tourer manufactured since 1954. The designation SL derives from the German Sport Leicht, or Sport Lightweight and was first applied to the 1954 300SL, often referred to as the "Gullwing" due to its upward-opening doors. The term SL-Class refers to the marketing variations of the vehicle now spanning six design generations. The 560SL represents the end of the third generation of SL's. The Mercedes-Benz 560SL was launched in 1985 and available as a convertible coupe. It was a luxury sports car that had a Type 107 body shell that had made its appearance in 1970 on the 350SL. The 560SL was created for the American market, with its 5.6 liter overhead-camshaft V8 engine. Production continued through the 1989 model year. Standard equipment included a limited slip differential, revised steering geometry, leather upholstery, anti-lock braking, anti-theft alarm system, leather trimmed steering wheel and shift lever, stereo radio-cassette, and an improved climate control system. Most cars were fitted with the optional, high quality removable hard-top that offered the flexibility of a convertible or hard-top. The 560SL is considered one of the premier sport / luxury cars and included numerous standard equipment items. Of course, it was produced by Mercedes-Benz, a company with a long standing reputation for its racing pedigree and commitment to style, performance, and refinement. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background for any collector car being sold over the Internet. It is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "glamour shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. - Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 21 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. - The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. We have sold hundreds of unique, classic and collectible vehicles and regularly deal with buyers that have not had the experience of purchasing a large (both physically and monetarily) item on eBay, or through an Internet source. Our eBay feedback is 100% positive on all vehicle sales from customers around the globe and is a reflection of our commitment to accurate, complete, and thorough vehicle descriptions. - We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping. - Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 875 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. - We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. - Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions - We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION - As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet. - In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, a documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license/registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. - While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. - We encourage inspections of this Mercedes by serious, qualified individuals or professional inspectors. Please call at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time. - As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. - Minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! - The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-989-9547 Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible / Hardtop Exterior Color:Desert Taupe Interior Color:Beige Engine:V8 Transmission:   Automatic Mileage:71047 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: Airbag Becker Radio California Lic & Reg Clear Title Included Exceptional Paint Quality Factory AM/FM Pwr. Ant. Factory Air Conditioning Factory Bucket Seats Factory Center Console Factory Mercedes Bodywork Factory Mercedes Hardtop Fuel Injection Full Instrumentation Interior Light Leather Seats Local California "Survivor"   Local California "Survivor" Matching Numbers Engine Matching Numbers Transmission Metallic Paint No Previous Damage Body Original Jack & Tools Parade Boot Perforated Leather Interior Power Locks Power Steering Rear Seat Belts Rear Storage Area Repair History Repair Receipts Runs / Drives Very Well SEE DESCRIPTION..... Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd. On Sep-10-15 at 12:09:50 PDT, seller added the following information: Sellers: Get your own map of past buyers. Fast. Simple.