History of Mercedes-Benz 300 SL & SLC
The Mercedes-Benz SL series was first introduced in 1971. It was produced for 18 years. During this time, the characteristics of the SL-class continued to acquire their distinctive features - advanced technology, powerful transmission, strict appearance and high level of accessories.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was heavier than its predecessor, the 280 SL at 135 kg. He even earned the nickname “Panzerwagen” for his weight, but the model itself was a great step forward. Trailing arms in the rear suspension replaced the previous versions of the antiquated swing axle layout.
A key feature of the 1986 SL range was the new models, in which the entry level of the 280 SL was replaced with the 300 SL, equipped with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a semi-electronic Bosch fuel injection system that replaced the purely mechanical injection unit. It had a power of 138 kW and had a four-speed automatic transmission.
Models SL series are technically interesting, have reliable build quality, smooth drivelines and comfortable interior. This makes them an excellent proposition for those who want to drive something more individual than modern.
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Characteristics of Classic Cars Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
| Produced: | MY 1985–1989 |
| Engine: | 6-cylinder-inline engine (four-stroke), front-mounted |
| Bore x Stroke: | 88.5 mm x 80.25 mm |
| Displacement: | 2962 cc |
| Max. Power @ rpm: | 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp) @ 5700 |
| Max. Torque @ rpm: | 255 N⋅m (188 lb⋅ft) @ 4400 |
| Compression Ratio: | 9.2: 1 |
| Fuel feed: | Fuel injection, Bosch D-Jetronic (-1976), K-Jetronic (-1980), K-Jetronic with Lambda (-1985) and from 1985 KE-Jetronic |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 90 L (23.8 US gal; 19.8 imp gal), from 1985: 85 L (22.5 US gal; 18.7 imp gal) |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC, simplex chain |
| Cooling: | Water |
| Gearbox: | 4- or 5-speed manual standard on 380/420/450/500: 3-speed automatic, from 1980: 4-speed automatic rear wheel drive |
| Electrical system: | 12 volt |
| Front suspension: | Double wishbones, coil springs, additional rubber springs, stabilising bar |
| Rear suspension: | Diagonal swing axle, coil springs, stabilising bar |
| Brakes: | Disc brakes (Ø 278 mm front, 279 mm rear; from 1985: 284/279 mm), power assisted ABS from 1980 on request or standard |
| Steering: | Recirculating ball steering |
| Body structure: | Sheet steel, unibody construction |
| Dry weight: | 1,530 kg (3,370 lb) |
| Loaded weight: | 1,930 kg (4,250 lb) |
| Track front/rear: | 1,452 mm (57.2 in) 1,440 mm (57 in) from 1985: 1,461 mm (57.5 in) 1,465 mm (57.7 in) |
| Wheelbase: | SL:2,460 mm (97 in); SLC: 2,820 mm (111 in) |
| Length: | SL: 4,390 mm (173 in); SLC: 4,750 mm (187 in) |
| Width: | 1,790 mm (70 in) |
| Height: | SL: 1,300 mm (51 in); SLC: 1,330 mm (52 in) |
| Tire sizes: | 205/65VR15 |
| Top speed: | 210 km/h (130 mph) |
| Fuel Consumption (estimates): | 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres (19.5 mpg‑imp; 16.2 mpg‑US) |
Gallery Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Classic Cars
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