🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

380 SLC

Year:

1981

Chassis Code:

R107

Generation Name:

Second Generation R107 SLC

Generation Years:

1971-1989 (SLC variants evolved)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer Coupe

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, automotive enthusiasts, independent repair shops specializing in European vehicles.

Competitors 1981:

BMW 6 Series (E24), Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928

Vehicle Philosophy:

Combining Mercedes-Benz's renowned engineering, safety, and comfort with the sporty appeal of a coupe.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge required to properly maintain and repair the complex systems of the 1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SLC, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Main Focus:

Service and Repair

Additional Coverage:

Diagnostics, Component Inspection, Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific manual edition, but comprehensive guides typically range from 500 to over 1000 pages.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF/WINRAR)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.8L V8 M116), Fuel System (Bosch K-Jetronic), Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System

Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4-speed 722.1), Transfer Case (if applicable for certain configurations, though less common on standard 380SLC), Driveshaft, Axles (Front and Rear)

Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS potentially on later R107 variants but less common on 1981 380SLC), Parking Brake

Electrical Body:

12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Gauges, Windshield Wipers, Climate Control (Heating/Ventilation/AC), Power Top Operation, Body Structure, Door Mechanisms, Locks, Hinges, Sunroof Operation

Level Control Suspension:

Covers inspection and fluid level correction for self-leveling suspension systems if equipped.

Drive Shaft Coupling:

Includes inspection and potential replacement procedures for drive shaft flexible couplings (flex discs).

Climate Control Filters:

Details replacement procedures for dust filters, active charcoal filters, and recirculating air filters for the HVAC system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and Filter Change, Air Filter Replacement, Fuel Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Corrections (Coolant, Oil, Brake, Power Steering, Transmission), Belt Inspection and Adjustment, Tire Pressure Correction, Battery Maintenance

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Identifying Causes of Vehicle Problems, Diagnostic Procedures for Engine, Fuel, Ignition, and Electrical Systems, Idle Speed Adjustment, Injection Timing Adjustment, Valve Clearance Adjustment

Component Repair Rebuild:

Disassembly and Inspection of Components, Rebuilding of Major Components (Engine, Transmission, Axles), Replacement of Specific Parts (Oxygen Sensor, Ball Joints, Brake Pads, Hoses, Lines), Adjustment of Parking Brake, Steering Play Correction

Body Interior Exterior:

Water Leakage and Corrosion Inspection, Body Paint Damage Check, Lubrication of Hinges and Locks, Sunroof Rail Cleaning and Greasing, Soft Top Inspection, Hydraulic Top Fluid Level Check, Wiper Blade Replacement, Filter Replacements (Dust, Charcoal, Recirculating Air)

Engine Mounts:

Includes procedures for adjusting engine stop and retorquing engine mount bolts.

Body Maintenance:

Covers lubrication of door hinges and locks, cleaning and greasing of sunroof rails, and checking soft top locking tabs.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to detailed component disassembly, rebuilding, and adjustment procedures. Includes diagnostic guidance for a wide range of potential issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF/WINRAR

Print Readability:

High-resolution digital scans suitable for printing or on-screen viewing, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Operating Systems:

Windows (95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8), Linux, MAC OS, iOS, Android

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M116

Configuration:

V8

Displacement:

3.8 liters (3839 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (typical for US market)

Horsepower Net:

Approx. 155-160 hp @ 4750 rpm (US spec, varies slightly by year and market)

Torque Net:

Approx. 195-200 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (US spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch CIS (Continuous Injection System) - K-Jetronic

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Filter Part Number Example:

000 477 05 04

Prefilter Part Number Example:

001 477 05 01

Oil Capacity With Filter:

Approx. 7.5 liters (8 US quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 liters

Antifreeze Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (MB Spec 325.0 or equivalent)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 722.1 series)

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in the US market for the 380SLC but available)

Automatic Fluid Type:

Dexron III/Mercon (or Mercedes-Benz specification equivalent)

Automatic Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 liters (for a full change with torque converter)

Manual Oil Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity)

Manual Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.8 liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2710 mm (106.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3520 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Contemporary safety standards; no modern standardized crash test data available, but known for robust construction.

Driver Assistance:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may have been available on later R107 models, but not standard on all 1981 380SLCs. Power steering enhances control.

Occupant Protection:

Reinforced body structure, crumple zones, safety glass, three-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original Mercedes-Benz radio and cassette player (often Blaupunkt or Becker), potentially with power antenna.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available.

Vintage Tech:

Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems of the era, with basic comfort features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Change:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to the manual for exact intervals.

Air Fuel Filter Replacement:

Air filter: Inspect every 20,000 km, replace as needed. Fuel filter: Replace every 40,000-50,000 km.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 40,000-60,000 km, depending on plug type and condition.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 50,000-80,000 km. Manual: Every 80,000-100,000 km.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific MB approval)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.3 or equivalent ATF.

Common Wear Items:

Rubber hoses and seals (due to age), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), suspension bushings, climate control blower motor, differential seals.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, around windows and sunroof.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Focus:

Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability.

R107 Development:

The R107 platform, which debuted in 1971, evolved significantly over its production run, with the SLC variants (pillarless coupes) offering a more luxurious and refined experience than their SL roadster counterparts. The 380SLC represented a significant update with its V8 engine and fuel injection.

Production Period Slc:

1972-1981 (SLC models)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

The R107 chassis was praised for its build quality, ride comfort, and V8 performance, solidifying Mercedes-Benz's reputation for creating durable luxury vehicles.