Mercedes-Benz 500SL (R107) – Early V8 Project on Mexican Hats

The R107 SL has gone from “nice classic” to seriously collectible, and the 500SL sits right near the top of the food chain. With its muscular 5.0-litre V8, cleaner Euro-style proportions and long-distance GT character, it’s one of the most desirable variants in the line-up – and this example is ready to be taken to the next level.

Riding on its period-correct “Mexican Hat” alloy wheels, the car has exactly the right stance and look for an early V8 SL. Visually it presents as a solid, honest project: a straight, largely complete example that gives the next owner a great foundation to either restore back to factory-correct spec or build into a tasteful cruiser without feeling guilty about cutting up a time-warp survivor.

Inside, the cabin retains that classic R107 feel – deep cowled dials, big thin-rimmed wheel and simple switchgear – and will reward a sympathetic refresh. The combination of the torquey 5.0 V8, smooth automatic gearbox and timeless Bruno Sacco styling makes the effort worthwhile: done properly, this 500SL will be a very special car.

If you’ve been waiting for the right V8 R107 to tackle as a project, this early 500SL on its factory Mexican Hats is a strong candidate: rare, iconic and with all the right ingredients to build into a seriously desirable SL.

Location Ballito