1985 MERCEDES 380SL - 50K MILE ORIG CALIFORNIA CAR - IMMACULATE LONG TIME OWNER

  • Location: Pleasanton, California, United States
  • Make: Mercedes-Benz
  • Model: SL-Class
  • SubModel: LIFELONG CA. CAR - 50K MILES - INCREDIBLE!
  • Type: CONVERTIBLE / FACT HARDTOP
  • Trim: LIFELONG CA. CAR - 50K MILES - INCREDIBLE!
  • Year: 1985
  • Mileage: 50305
  • VIN: WDBBA45C2FA018114
  • Color: Petrol Blue/Green Metallic
  • Engine size: 3.8 Lioter V8
  • Number of cylinders: 8
  • Power options: Original Becker Radio, Air Conditioning, Cruise Control, Power Windows
  • Fuel: Gasoline
  • Transmission: Automatic
  • Drive type: RWD
  • Interior color: Tan
  • Drive side: Left-hand drive
  • Safety options: Anti-Lock Brakes
  • Options: Cassette Player, Convertible, Leather Seats
  • Vehicle Title: Clean

1985 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class LIFELONG CA. CAR - 50K MILES - INCREDIBLE! Description

1985 Mercedes 380SL - Two Tops, One California Owner - 50K Miles!

Desirable Petrol Blue/Green Metallic w/ Tan Leather;Two Tops

50,000 Actual Miles; Regularly Serviced w/ Records; Totally Clean CARFAX

Original Manuals; Very Well-Maintained, Extremely Clean 560SL

Christmas is Coming!!

__________________________

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 380SL can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction.

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 26+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 1,000+ positive eBay feedback responses.

Please keep in mind that we will gladly…

  • Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451).
  • Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices.
  • Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment.
  • 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)
  • 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 1985 MERCEDES-BENZ 380SL

    We are regularly asked to locate very well maintained “honest” all original low mileage examples of the desirable Mercedes SL cars that many consider the “Best of the Best” in the class of 1980’s 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 an exceptional example of a lifelong California 380Sl with two long-term owners (the most recent for 20+ years), low mileage, beautiful original paint in Petrol Blue/Green metallic, excellent color coordinated convertible top, and a matching factory hardtop.

    HISTORY

    This particular Mercedes 380SL was delivered to the original owner, Mr. Chippenfield, Ventura, CA. on 11/12/84 by Silver Star A.G., Ltd., Thousand Oaks, CA. The 380SL was owned by him until October, 1999, when the cars current owner took possession of the Mercedes with only ~36K miles. During her ownership, the car has only accumulated under 15,000 miles and has been used exclusively fair weather, occasional use car.

    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 history of passing required smog checks and the most recent maintenance by a German car specialist, gave the car a totally clean bill of health.

    The car has a clear California title and is currently licensed and registered in California.

    DOCUMENTATION

    We have had the pleasure of selling more “SL” cars than we can remember! Frankly, this example is one of the best documented, lowest mileage, best looking & running example that we have had. The following documents will be provided to the new owner:

    – Original 560SL Owner’s Manual

    – Maintenance Booklet w/ maintenance entries through 30K miles) Other ongoing service documented by hard receipts)

    – Mercedes Data Plate (“Protecto-Plate’) and factory internal production sheet

    – Operation of 380SL Tops brochure

    – Electronic Radio Operations Guide

    – Operation and Care of SL Tops brochure

    – Mercedes-Benz Dealer Directory

    – Roadside Assistance Program brochure

    – Owner’s Service & Warranty Policy

    – Original Becker radio brochure

    – Original Michelin tire brochure

    – Mercedes cruise control operation tag

    – Original Mercedes Benz Climate Control tag

    – Still in bag, antenna cleaning cloth

    – MBX warranty card

    – MBZ service booklet with original service invoice

    – Facts about car cover

    – Brochure – Factory Approved Service Products

    – Additional individual maintenance receipts for recent years

    – Folder for above

    COSMETIC CONDITION

    The Petrol blue/green Metallic paint is all original and shows extremely well with no indications of partial or complete re-painting. The twin pinstripes, applied when the Mercedes was new, down the sides add a nice touch. The body remains free from damage and cosmetic imperfections that detract from the overall appearance of the Mercedes. The bight-work is equally excellent with no damage, fading or issues. 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 in excellent condition with a totally clear rear window.

    All stainless trim is in excellent shape. Bumper chrome is excellent. All four 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 excellent showing no uneven wear and considerable remaining tread. All of the glass is excellent and carries the Mercedes factory logo. The rubber on the bumpers and body side mouldings is excellent.

    The tan leather seating is beautiful and 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.

    The engine compartment is extremely clean and free from any accumulation of grease or dirt. It reflects ongoing care and “no expense spared maintenance” to ensure that the car is in excellent mechanical condition at all times.

    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 bag. The underside of the car is not detailed and reflects the cars California lineage and complete lack of rust and damage. With the exception of extremely light surface discoloration of the exhaust, there are no signs that the car has seen regular exposure to the elements. The frame, floors and other sub-structures are as solid as a rock, straight and damage free.

    We encourage a thorough review of the photos and, in this case, the old adage “A photo is worth 1,000 words” certainly applies.

    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 reading 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!

    MAINTENANCE

    This car has been regularly serviced as verified by the included Maintenance Booklet with records through 30K miles plus individual receipts since then by the current owner. The Mercedes was inspected within the previous 100 miles receiving the benefit of an oil service, A/C (13) recharge and new shock absorbers.

    Since the car was delivered, it has been service by the MBZ dealer, or qualified specialists. The receipts are entirely too extensive to list in detail but we will gladly review them with serious, qualified buyers.

    The photos show the sheer volume of maintenance work and it is apparent that the car has never been neglected, receiving virtually all recommended service with no deferred maintenance

    MECHANICAL

    – Light alloy V8 engine, 2 single overhead cams, and 5 main bearings

    – KE III Electromechanical fuel injection

    – 4-speed automatic transmission w/ torque converter

    – Limited slip differential

    – Unitized all-steel body

    – Power assisted steering

    – Cruise control

    – 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)

    SAFETY AND SECURITY

    • Supplemental restraint system (air bags)
    • 3-point seat belts w/ inertial reels, front emergency tensioning retractors
    • Head restraints
    • Anti-theft alarm system w/ radio theft deterrent

    EXTERIOR

    • Petrol Blue/Green Metallic paint in excellent condition, twin pin stripes down both sides
    • Hard top in matching Petrol Metallic w/ electrically heated rear window
    • Excellent 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
    • 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 mouldings 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

    • Ten leather seating in good condition but does show use
    • Fully adjustable bucket seats & head restraints
    • Nice tan headliner in hard top
    • Roof mounted assist grips on hard top
    • Beautiful 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
    • Faux 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
    • Trunk contains original full size spare tire and tools that have never been used
    • Excellent gold carpet throughout trunk

    OTHER

    • Passed the California required safety inspection for working wipers, turn signals, lights, brakes, etc.
    • Current California registration and clear California title
    • Clean CARFAX; no accidents

    SPECIFICATIONS OF THE 1985 MERCEDES-BENZ 380SL

    • Length 180.3”
    • Wheelbase 96.7”
    • Width 70.5”
    • Height 51.1”
    • Turning circle 35.2’
    • Curb weight 3705 lb.
    • V8 engine w/ 2 single overhead cams, 5 main bearings
    • 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 380SL

    TheMercedes-Benz SL-Classis agrand touringsports carmanufactured byMercedessince 1954. The designationSLderives from the GermanSuper-Leicht,(English: Super Light). The original idea was suggested byAmericanimporterMax Hoffman, who perceived a market for a toned-down Gran Prix car tailored to affluent performance enthusiasts in the booming post-warAmerican market, which remains the primary market for the vehicles.

    TheSLdesignation was first applied to the300 SL, often referred to as the “Gullwing” due to itsgullwingor upward-opening doors.

    The termSLrefers to the marketing variations of the vehicle, including the numerous engine configurations spanning six design generations.

    Thank you,

    Classic Cars Ltd.

    925-989-9547

    Specifications

    VIN: WDBBA45C2FA018114
    Exterior Color: Petrol Blue/ Green Metallic
    Interior Color: Tan
    Engine: 3.4 Liter Inline 6 Cylinder
    Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
    Status: Available
    Stock: 09-10527
    Mileage: 89,594
    Features: Lifelong California car with two long term owners, impeccable maintenance, and extensive history dating back to delivery in 1994.

    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.

    ·We have been the same, small, California town for over 25 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.We strive to achieve 100% positive feedback 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 975+ 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 are subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees, and license and registration.Out of state buyers are responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any local fees, taxers, etc. being paid in their respective state.IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California, applicable California 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 and ask that you call us at 925-846-1451 if we can answer any questions about the vehicle, Classic Car Ltd, or shipping costs to your location.

    ·We encourage inspections by interested buyers 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.

    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.

    ·We reserve the right to end the auction prior to the scheduled auction close date. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846-1451.

    ·Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.

    ·Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and 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 and other transfer documents via Priority Mail.Larger items and parts will be shipped with the vehicle.

    ·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

    Classic Cars Ltd.

    925-846-1451n 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.