Lot #1173.1 - Toward the end of the hand-built Mercedes-Benz era in 1971, the long-loved 113 series was replaced by the 107 series, which ran its course until 1988. Premiering for US sales in 1972, the one-year-only 350SL was a total makeover from the Pagoda cars of the 1960s. It offered V8 power, plenty of options, a refined design and interior. The SL now had fuel injection, early engine management and creature comforts of the sedans of the same era. They were indeed cutting edge, as SLs always have been. As it can be said with most makes and models, the first year of anything has certain importance, especially if it remains well-preserved and indicative of the manufacturer's original design and intent. The 1972 350SL offers purity of an original design and a new beginning. The example offered here is a very nice and mostly original 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SL roadster. An extreme rarity, this 350SL has lived a privileged life of care and enjoyment. It was a one-year-only US production model that offered many significant appointments including attractive Euro small bumpers, two tone interior, rear kinder seat, and a powerful 4.5 Liter V8 engine. This SL was the recipient of a recent cosmetic freshening. It still retains its original books and manuals and recent service and maintenance receipts of over $7,500, some of which included a fuel pump, injectors, air conditioning service, transmission fluid service, belts, fluids, battery, updated wheels and tires, etc., all over the last few thousand miles. All things considered, this 107 presents a unique opportunity to acquire a well-kept Mercedes-Benz SL that is on the cusp of being a true collector car. Original books, manuals and ownership history, finished in handsome colors and offered with both of its tops put this 107 in a category all its own.