Here is an ultra rare 1980 European model 380SLC. Similar to the very coveted European spec 500SLC. The European model 380SLC started production in March of 1980 and featured a 218hp engine, nly 27 horsepower less than the beastly 500SLC. Unfortunately US bound 380SLC were plaqued with heavy emissions regulations and the hp dropped to a mere 155hp. They also had imposing large 5 mph bumpers unsightly at best, ut nothing in comparision to the elegance of the European models. US models also had a single timing chain which was prone to failure and required an expensive retrofit. Mercedes quietly covered most of the early cars. All Euro models had double timing chains from the factory to accomodate the higher output of those engines.For the 1981 US bound SLC model range, he 450SLC was retired and the 380SLC was then available to US customers. Only 1501 380SLC's were imported, nd only 684 produced for the German market making it one of the rarest of the R/C107 lineup. 237,287 R107 SL's were produced from 1971-1989, nd 62,888 SLC's were produced from 1971-1982 making it far rarer than the convertible SL model. Most have succumed to rust or have been used as parts cars to restore SL's. Its estimated that less than 2500 SLC's exist today.Very similar to the beloved R107 convertible, opularly known as the 450SL, 80SL, nd 560SL, he SLC was a more practical car able to seat four people comfortably. European model SL's had a small seat in the rear, nly usuable for children. This option was not available to US customers.The SLC was meant to be a replacement for the much loved W111 280SE coupe, a grand traditional coupe with an upright grille. Both cars being pillarless coupes, he SLC was aimed towards a sports car more so than a grand tourer. As production ended in 1971 in came a new look and a new model and the R107 was an instant hit. The SLC remained the most expensive model in the Mercedes lineup until it was repalced by the C126 S-class derived 380/500SEC models.This one owner car was lovingly cared for and is remarkably well preserved. Its traveled only 75k miles and is rust free. Finished in Signal Red, the paint is smooth shiny and dent free. There are some minor parking lot chips, but hardly noticeable.. There is no rust on the front frame rails, common fatal problem, nd also none on the jack points. It has its original spare tire, jack, nd warning triangle, lone with its tool kit. The chrome around the car is not pitted and is beatifully deep and rich, not faded or oxidized. The best part about this car is it has the optional velour interior, n option at the time costing as much as leather. Most of the 1960's 600 models had velour as it was considered at the time to be the ultimate in luxury, especially in cold climates. The interior smells clean and fresh, the windows and sunroof work perfectly. The wood is deep and rich not faded like most SL's and the dashboard is crack free as well.This car runs strong and fast, almost imperceptable in the way a 500SLC drives, ut far different than the sluggish US 380 models. The only exterior difference from the 500SLC is that it does not have a black rubber rear spoiler. Personally I prefer models without it. Please call with any questions. 561.309.4626
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