Mercedes-Benz SL III (R107) gallery (1971–1989)
The third-generation R107 remained in production for 18 years from 1971 to 1989, becoming the longest-running SL series in history.
The third-generation Mercedes-Benz SL (R107 chassis) was manufactured continuously from 1971 to 1989, representing the second longest single production run in Mercedes history after the G-Class. The R107 adopted clean exterior styling with safety-focused ribbed rear light clusters designed to shed dirt. A fixed-roof four-seater coupe derivative with an extended wheelbase, the SLC (C107), was built alongside the roadster until 1981.
Over its 18-year lifespan, the R107 was powered by a wide range of gasoline powerplants, including 2.8L and 3.0L inline-sixes (280 SL, 300 SL) alongside V8 engines ranging from 3.5L to 5.6L (560 SL for North American and Asian markets). Mechanical systems evolved significantly with fuel injection advancements (D-Jetronic to K-Jetronic and KE-Jetronic), introduction of ABS brakes, and addition of driver airbags. Total roadster production exceeded 237,000 units.
