Introduction and History of the Mercedes-Benz R107 / C107 Series (1971–1989)

The Mercedes-Benz R107 SL (Roadster) and C107 SLC (Coupé) represent an era of elegance, luxury, and engineering excellence that defined Mercedes-Benz through the 1970s and 1980s. Introduced in 1971, the R107 succeeded the legendary W113 “Pagoda” SL, while the C107 took over from the W111 Coupé, marking a bold new design direction.

With production running for nearly 18 years, the R107 became the second-longest-running passenger car model in Mercedes history, after the G-Class. Its combination of timeless design, robust V8 performance, and unmatched build quality has earned it classic status worldwide.

Background and Development

• Launched: April 1971 (as the 350 SL)

• Designer: Friedrich Geiger, under Bruno Sacco’s design leadership

• Platform: Based on the W114/W115 chassis but heavily reworked

• First SL with a V8 engine at launch

The R107 was developed as a more luxurious and powerful roadster for Mercedes’ increasingly affluent global clientele. It retained the open-top charm of earlier SLs but moved toward the grand touring (GT) concept.

R107 vs. C107: Body Styles

• The SLC (C107) was unique as the only SL-based coupé in Mercedes history.

• The SLC was replaced in 1981 by the C126 SEC coupés based on the W126 S-Class.

Powertrains and Model Evolution

The R107 and C107 were offered with a wide variety of inline-six and V8 engines, tailored for different markets (especially the U.S., where emissions regulations influenced specifications).

🧰 Petrol Engines (Selection):

Note: U.S. models often had lower power due to stricter emissions and added safety equipment (e.g., larger bumpers).

Global Reach and Popularity

• Sold worldwide, with over 237,000 units of the R107 SL produced.

• North America was the largest market — many SLs had U.S.-spec lighting, bumpers, and emissions equipment.

• Known for their refined cruising, elegant design, and Mercedes’ signature solidity.

• The 560 SL (1986–1989) became especially popular in the U.S. and remains highly sought-after.

Safety and Engineering Highlights

• First SL with a fuel tank positioned above the rear axle (safer crash location)

• Crumple zones and a reinforced passenger safety cell

• Standard ABS and airbag on late models

• Optional automatic climate control, leather, cruise control, and more

• Fully independent suspension with disc brakes all around

Production Totals (R107 / C107)

Legacy and Collector Interest

• The R107 is considered a blue-chip classic, prized for its blend of reliability, style, and prestige.

• The early European V8s, manual transmission cars, and late 560 SLs are most collectible.

• The C107 SLC, long overlooked, is now gaining recognition — particularly rare models like the 450 SLC 5.0 and 500 SLC (homologation specials for rally racing).