1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL Pre-AMG Merger Roadster

Overview

• One of eight examples believed to have been produced with a five-speed manual transmission for AMG North America
• Powered by an AMG-tuned 5.0-liter M117 engine rated at 300 hp
• Equipped with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential
• The current owner bought it from the original owner, Jack Chance, via broker in 2007
• Originally sold by Classic Motors in Beverly Hills in 1982
• Reference pictures include AMG documentation, Classic Motors brochure, scope of engine vin stamp and media references

Here are the differences between RM Sotheby’s Miami car which sold for $291k and this example:

• Miami car was the 276 HP version of the 5.0 engine
• This one is the 300 HP version which was an additional $6,800 option (see AMG SL docs)
• Miami car had over 100k km/70k+ miles and this one currently has 36,092 miles

The car comes with the original BBS basket wheels and the correct 5-star wheels which are currently on the car. The original sun visors, rear floor mats, tools and spare are included as well.  The exhaust is not original to the car.

The only changes that have been made under current ownership are the wheels and the seats which were replaced with restored, AMG-correct Recaros.

Los Angeles AMG expert, Henric Nienimen, once told the current owner that the steering wheel is from a later, possibly 1985, AMG Mercedes.

Based on paint meter readings, the current owner believes the passenger-side front fender was once repaired and resprayed.  Paint is spider-cracking (see pics)

I can provide pictures of the original convertible top which has significant wear over time.

If interested, please call Greg Stanley at (904) 864-6179 or at GStanley@RMSothebys.com