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Mercedes-Benz 280SL – A timeless symbol of German engineering and classic design. Whether you’re a vinyl enthusiast, a seasoned collector, or just curious about historic luxury cars, the 1981 Mercedes-Benz 280SL stands proudly among iconic sports coupes. Its smooth lines and powerful rhythm on the road captured the imagination of drivers worldwide. While the actual Mercedes-Benz 280SL price differs based on market, condition and mileage, this description will give you a clear snapshot of what you can expect when researching the 1981 model and its used variants.

Key Specifications

• Engine: 2.8‑liter inline‑six (mild hybrid, depending on era)
• Output: 201–235 hp (varies with options & emissions standards)
• Transmission: 5‑speed manual or optional 4‑speed automatic (later 34‑speed automatic)
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, naturally aspirated or mild turbo‑charged
• Drivetrain: Rear‑wheel drive (RWD) / All‑wheel drive (AWD) with optional M113 platform
• Dimensions: Length – 4,200 mm; Width – 1,790 mm; Height – 1,380 mm; Wheelbase – 2,485 mm
• Weight: Approx. 1,580 kg (depending on equipment level)
• Suspension: Double wishbone front, multi‑link rear with adjustable dampers
• Brakes: Front and rear ventilated disc brakes, optional ABS
• Interior: Leather upholstery, climate control, 6‑speed shifter by hand, optional navigation
• Safety: Dual airbags, seat belt pretensioners, ISOFIX child seats
• Tech Features: Optional Sat‑Nav, premium sound system, climate control, electronic stability control

Depreciation Insight

When evaluating any classic vehicle, understanding depreciation is essential. Makeshift but reliable data suggests that early examples of the Mercedes-Benz 280SL typically lose 15‑20 % of their value within the first year of sale. In subsequent years, the loss slows to roughly 5‑8 % annually, assuming your maintenance record remains comprehensive.

For collectors, depreciation curves can be steeper in highly competitive markets, especially for pristine 1981 variants. However, a well‑documented and properly maintained used Mercedes-Benz 280SL often retains a higher resale value than its under‑cared counterparts.

Additionally, the Mercedes-Benz 280SL depreciation curve can be affected by historical significance. Models that captured awards or limited editions of the 1981 era may command a premium, slightly shifting the expected percentage loss downwards.

Comparison Context

In the realm of classic GT coupes, the 280SL frequently appears in conversation with the heavier 300SL Roadster. Although both share the iconic “Gullwing” silhouette, the 280SL is a lighter, more modern chassis offering a tighter handling experience. Price comparison reveals that a 1981 Mercedes-Benz 280SL typically sits at a lower

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Last 20 car trackeds

Last tracked date	Status	Price	Price rank	Link
4 years ago	used	£32,950.00		Unlock all links