Model Code:
R107 (specific designation for the SLC coupe)
Production Years Covered:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Market Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer Coupe.
Key Competitors:
BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928.
Vehicle Type:
2+2 Coupe, derived from the R107 SL Roadster.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on build quality, comfort, and sophisticated engineering.
Target User:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, or professional mechanics needing a definitive reference.
Advantage:
Provides factory-level accuracy and detail, eliminating guesswork and ensuring correct procedures.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic only for this model).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, climate control electronics, power accessories.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior components, seating, HVAC system (mechanical aspects).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), tune-up procedures, brake service, belt replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable to this era), symptom-based fault finding.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Equivalent to dealership technician level.
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
Displacement:
3.8 liters (3839 cc)
Horsepower Approximate:
155-160 hp (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque Approximate:
200-210 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition
Cooling Medium:
Water-cooled
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Overall Length:
Approximately 184.4 inches (4685 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 52.2 inches (1325 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3600-3750 lbs (1630-1700 kg)
Crash Test Data:
Era-appropriate safety standards. Data from official modern crash tests may be limited.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models.
Steering:
Power-assisted recirculating ball steering.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for impact absorption.
Structural Integrity:
Reinforced passenger cell.
Audio System:
Original equipment typically featured an AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with power antenna and upgraded speaker options.
HVAC:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (Thermatic) with R12 refrigerant compatibility.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional and became more common in later years of this generation.
Windows And Locks:
Power windows, central locking system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory functions were often optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for scheduled inspections of ignition, fuel, suspension, and brake components (e.g., every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for exact climate-dependent recommendations).
Coolant Type:
50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze/coolant and distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II (or equivalent).
Engine Component Wear:
Timing chain guides (plastic guides can degrade), valve stem seals, potential for oil leaks from seals and gaskets.
Fuel System Maintenance:
K-Jetronic system requires precise maintenance; fuel distributor, air flow meter, and injectors need periodic cleaning and adjustment.
Electrical System Issues:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring harnesses, failing relays, and vacuum leaks affecting engine performance.
Suspension And Steering:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and potential for steering box leaks.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter W917 or equivalent.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C33115/1 or equivalent.
Brand History:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, and longevity.
R107 Platform Debut:
The R107 chassis debuted in 1971 (as the 350SL/SLC). The SLC (coupe) variant was introduced shortly after the SL roadster.
380 Engine Introduction:
The 3.8L V8 (M116) was introduced in the US market in 1980 to meet emissions and fuel economy regulations, replacing the 4.5L V8 in many configurations.
R107 Facelift:
The R107 received styling updates and mechanical improvements throughout its long production run, including the period covered by this manual.
Production Period:
The R107 chassis was produced from 1971 to 1989, making it one of Mercedes-Benz's longest-running single chassis generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
