Unregistered 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL Found at 42 Miles
SLSHOP has unearthed a time-capsule 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL in factory-new condition that has never been registered or driven on UK roads, showing only 42 miles since it left the factory over 42 years ago. This rare R107 remains a genuine, low-mileage, right-hand drive classic car that showcases Mercedes-Benz engineering at its peak during the period.
The unrestored car, finished in Blue Green Metallic, is equipped with every available factory option. SLSHOP believes it is the only original, unregistered 500SL (R107) in existence outside the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, a claim that underscores its significance to the Mercedes-Benz community and collectors of iconic sports cars.
Mr Hough, a successful watchmaker, purchased the car new on 30 November 1982 for £24,400, equivalent to over £87,000 today. He had it trailered to his home in Gnosall, Staffordshire, and preserved it with meticulous care in a heated, de-humidified garage for 42 years. Drawing on his watchmaking skills and attention to detail, he created a hallmarked sterling silver Mercedes-Benz badge that still accompanies the vehicle.
Period-correct details match what a buyer would have seen in a 1982 Mercedes-Benz showroom. Original factory stickers remain throughout the car, with Waxoyl evident on the engine and exhaust. Optional extras totalled £2,331, or £8,360 today, and include air conditioning, heated seats, ABS, leather upholstery, rear seats and metallic paint. Inspectors report no trace of corrosion. Original sales documentation from Carols of Wolverhampton survives alongside incomplete V55/5 registration forms, adding provenance prized in classic Mercedes-Benz sales.
Sam Bailey, SLSHOP Founder and Managing Director, said: “This 500SL is the closest reflection of the original R107 SL blueprints — a reference point for our technicians and a benchmark for the wider Mercedes-Benz community who continue to preserve these wonderful machines.’’
“We first learned of it 15 years ago, when Mr Hough approached me at the NEC Classic Car Show, and we agreed that one day SLSHOP would become its custodian. This car will never be offered for sale and instead, we are creating a dedicated climate-controlled space where this remarkable time capsule will remain on display as a lasting tribute to Mr Hough’s passion.”
SLSHOP will place the 500SL on display at its Warwickshire headquarters, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate an untouched piece of Mercedes-Benz history. The car will also make a limited public appearance at Mercedes-Benz World, in partnership with Mercedes-Benz UK, offering visitors a rare chance to view a virtually new 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500SL.
