🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

380 SLC

Year:

1981

Chassis Code:

C107

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT) Coupe

Competitors Of Era:

BMW 6 Series, Porsche 928, Jaguar XJ-S, Maserati Ghibli II

Design:

Brimming with the classic, elegant styling of Mercedes-Benz from the late 1970s and early 1980s, featuring the iconic 'SLC' pillarless coupe design.

Performance Focus:

A blend of luxurious comfort and confident V8 performance, designed for long-distance touring.

Manual Value:

Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain and repair their classic Mercedes-Benz, saving on professional labor costs and ensuring longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Overhaul, Restoration

Diagnostic Coverage:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory-style manuals.

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF / WINRAR

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine diagnostics, maintenance, overhaul, valve clearance adjustment, timing, fuel injection, air intake, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine mounts.

Transmission:

Manual transmission oil change and level check; Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, fluid level check; Transfer case fluid change and level check.

Brakes:

Brake fluid level, line inspection, pad and disc thickness inspection, parking brake adjustment, brake fluid replacement, brake system testing.

Suspension:

Suspension and body structure inspection, front axle oil level, ball joint inspection, rear axle oil change and level check, rear axle mount adjustment, level control (ADS, ASD, 4MATIC) fluid level, self-leveling suspension inspection.

Steering:

Steering play check, steering bolt retightening, power steering fluid level.

Electrical System:

Wiring schematics, warning and indicator lamp checks, battery fluid level checks, headlamp and exterior lamp inspection.

Body:

Water leakage and corrosion inspection, body paint damage inspection, door hinge and lock lubrication, hood lubrication, sunroof rail cleaning and greasing, soft top locking tab inspection, windshield wiper and washer inspection, window wiper blade replacement, removing and installing lower engine compartment panels, removing and installing lower noise encapsulation panels.

Climate Control:

AC refrigerant charge check, dust filter replacement, active charcoal filter replacement, recirculating air filter replacement, windshield washer fluid level.

Fuel System:

Fuel filter replacement, fuel prefilter replacement, fuel system condition checks.

Maintenance:

Engine oil and filter change, valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, fuel filter replacement, air filter replacement, V-belt inspection, coolant level and antifreeze check, coolant replacement, transmission oil changes, brake fluid replacement, lubrication of various components (hinges, locks, rails, hood, mirrors).

Repair:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including component replacement and adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Detailed troubleshooting guidance for common issues across all vehicle systems.

Rebuilding:

Procedures for rebuilding major components.

Refurbishment:

Guidance for refurbishing various parts and systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and repairs, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Illustrations:

Includes diagrams and illustrations

Schematics:

Includes wiring schematics

Specifications:

Provides necessary specifications for repairs and maintenance

Diagnostic Tools Mentioned:

Mentions the use of special tools for certain inspections and adjustments, implying a professional-level of detail.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF / WINRAR

Compatibility:

Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8/Linux/MAC, iOS, Android

Delivery:

Instant Download

Printability:

Designed for clear printing

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Step By Step Instructions:

Provides complete step-by-step instructions for all procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M116

Engine Type:

V8, SOHC

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3839 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approximately 155-160 hp @ 4750 rpm (SAE Net, depending on market and emissions controls)

Torque:

Approximately 220-230 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (SAE Net, depending on market and emissions controls)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection System (CIS)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for precise specifications)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4G-Tronic)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Rare for 380 SLC in many markets)

Automatic Fluid Type:

MB 236.2 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Dexron IIE or equivalent)

Manual Oil Type:

MB 235.1 Specification Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4730 mm (186.2 in)

Width:

1720 mm (67.7 in)

Height:

1300 mm (51.2 in)

Wheelbase:

2575 mm (101.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1660 kg (3660 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approximately 2060 kg (4542 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Wheel Offset:

ET 30 (typical for 14-inch wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

Modern crash test data is not directly comparable to the era; however, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this period were known for robust construction and safety features for their time.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some models.

Seatbelts:

Standard 3-point seatbelts, manual adjustment and check of safety belts.

Body Construction:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.

Antenna:

Power antenna mast with cleaning procedure listed.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Diagnostic Ports:

Diagnostic procedures are detailed for proprietary Mercedes-Benz systems of the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic: Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles). Manual: As per manual, often longer intervals.

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent) with the correct antifreeze protection.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific MB approval)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 Specification Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF)

Common Problems:

Rust formation (wheel arches, rocker panels, sills), aging rubber seals and hoses, fuel distributor diaphragm leaks (K-Jetronic), vacuum hose degradation, potential for head gasket issues if overheated, older automatic transmission solenoids.

Routine Checks:

Regular inspection of all fluid levels, belts, hoses, tires, and braking system components.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Mercedes-Benz, a German automotive manufacturer founded in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation.

C107 Generation:

The C107 SLC (Sport Leicht Kurz - Sport Light Short) was the coupe version of the R107 SL roadster, introduced in 1971 and produced until 1989. The 380 SLC was a significant variant within this generation.

Production Years For 380Slc:

1978-1981

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Recognition:

Mercedes-Benz vehicles from this era are often recognized for their build quality, durability, and timeless design.