The Mercedes-Benz R107 series is one of the most iconic luxury cars of the 70s and 80s. In movies and television the SL roadster was often the car seen cruising Rodeo Drive or through Miami Beach. It was a car that defined the marque and the era, especially since it’s design was in production for 18 years starting in 1971 and ending in 1989—it went on to become the longest-running production passenger car in Mercedes history. Though separated by a three generations the 560 SL traces its roots back to the iconic, two seat gull-winged Benz of the 1950s. In fact, the R107 and the 300SL gullwing were designed by the same guy—Friedrich Geiger. This is especially noteworthy since the 300SL has rightfully earned it’s status as one of the most highly regarded vehicles of all time.

The styling is understated but elegant and highly sophisticated. It’s also incredibly well-built with a solidity and over-engineered feeling. Through the years of production Mercedes added larger displacement engines, improved materials and refined the design. The ultimate model in the R107 SL range is the 560SL pictured although some would argue that the Euro-spec 500SL takes the cake with it’s smaller bumpers and unrestricted emissions. The big 5.6 liter V8 from the S-Class was shoehorned into the SL s engine bay to create a sporting car that was capable of 150mph performance while remaining quietly composed and sophisticated.

This photographic print is limited to 1,989 prints across all reproductions. Why 1989? That’s the final model year for the R107. This “Nachtblau” Midnight Blue one in featured in this photograph is from my personal collection and it carries deep personal meaning. In his heyday, my father had an 84 500SL Euro-spec model of the same color way. I learned to drive in that car and it was the car that made me take notice of car design in general. It’s the reason for my love of cars. He scuttled the car when the bad times hit but I told myself if I ever had the chance to get behind the wheel of one I would seize that opportunity.

Though there were many made, most haven’t survived the decades intact. As such, what remains has become collectible. This is a rare color, low miles, super clean, completely original example.