The Mercedes-Benz R107 generation SL, produced from 1971 to 1989, represented a significant evolution for the iconic SL roadster. The 350 SL V8, specifically those built between November 1970 and February 1976, occupied a crucial position in the early years of the R107’s lifespan. It served as a bridge between the classic, hand-built SLs of the past and the more modern, mass-produced luxury roadsters that would follow. This variant, powered by the M116.984 engine and paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a blend of performance and comfort appealing to a discerning clientele. The R107 platform, designed by Bruno Sacco, prioritized safety and comfort alongside the traditional SL sporting character.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL |
| Generation | SL (R107) |
| Type (Engine) | 350 SL V8 (200 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 1970 |
| End of production | February, 1976 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 211 Nm @ 4000 rpm (155.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 116.984 |
| Engine displacement | 3499 cm3 (213.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 65.8 mm (2.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.3 l (15.11 US qt | 12.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1545 kg (3406.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 252 l (8.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4390 mm (172.83 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2460 mm (96.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.34 m (33.92 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 278 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 279 mm |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/70 VR14 Rear wheel tires: 205/70 VR14 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 Rear wheel rims: 6.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 350 SL was the M116.984 3.5-liter V8 engine. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per bank, operating two valves per cylinder. It utilized Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection, a sophisticated system for its time, providing precise fuel delivery for improved efficiency and performance. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contributed to its longevity. The three-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for luxury vehicles of the era, was designed for smooth, comfortable shifts rather than outright performance. It featured a torque converter for smooth engagement and a relatively conservative gear ratio spread, prioritizing cruising ability over rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 350 SL Automatic offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not a sports car in the modern sense, the V8 engine provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual, suited the car’s grand touring character. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 127 mph. The gear ratios were optimized for relaxed highway driving, with the first gear being relatively tall. Compared to the later, more powerful 450 SL, the 350 SL felt less urgent but more balanced and manageable. A manual transmission option was available, offering a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic was by far the more popular choice.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 350 SL came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Interior appointments included leatherette upholstery (leather was an option), wood trim on the dashboard and center console, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. Power steering and power-assisted disc brakes were standard features. Optional extras included air conditioning, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The early R107s, like the 350 SL, generally featured a more understated elegance compared to the later, more opulent models. The dashboard layout was relatively simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The R107 chassis was a robust monocoque construction, providing a solid foundation for the car’s handling and safety. Suspension consisted of independent double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup with a transverse stabilizer at the rear. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. The steering was a recirculating ball system, offering a degree of feel but lacking the precision of more modern rack-and-pinion setups.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 350 SL V8 Automatic was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and elegant styling. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission dulled the car’s performance potential. Compared to the 280 SL (which used a six-cylinder engine), the 350 SL offered significantly more power and a smoother driving experience. Compared to the later 450 SL, the 350 SL was considered more balanced and less prone to overheating issues. Fuel economy, at around 18 mpg, was typical for a V8-powered luxury car of the era.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz R107 350 SL V8 Automatic has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. The M116 engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. While maintenance costs can be higher than for more modern cars, the 350 SL’s robust construction and readily available parts supply make it a relatively easy car to keep running. In the used car market, the early R107s, particularly the 350 SL, are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their classic styling, comfortable driving experience, and enduring quality. They represent a significant piece of Mercedes-Benz history and a testament to the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence.
