🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

380SL

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

R107

Engine Code:

M116

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT), Convertible

Target Audience:

Affluent individuals seeking a stylish, comfortable, and high-performance convertible or coupe.

Competitors:

Jaguar XJS, BMW 6 Series, Porsche 928, Chevrolet Corvette (depending on market and specific model year).

Design:

Iconic R107 chassis, elegant styling, strong build quality, retractable soft top or optional hardtop.

Performance:

Smooth V8 power delivery, comfortable ride, capable highway cruiser.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 800+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Manual (likely repro or original)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), emissions control

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (722.3) service, repair, adjustments, fluid changes, overhaul

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, brake pads, rotors, calipers, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, parking brake

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gearbox, tie rods, linkages, adjustments

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Climate Control:

Air conditioning (R12 refrigerant), heater core, blower motor, climate control panel operation and repair

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, seats, trim, convertible top mechanism (hydraulic/manual), glass replacement

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pressure testing

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault codes (if applicable to K-Jetronic), diagnostic flowcharts

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications and tolerances

Adjustment:

Valve adjustments, ignition timing, idle speed, shift point adjustments

Special Tools:

Identification of necessary special tools and their usage

Troubleshooting Engine:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for common engine performance issues related to the M116 engine and K-Jetronic fuel injection.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Includes critical engine and transmission rebuilding specifications, torque values, and clearances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits.

Body Repair:

Guidance on body panel alignment, rust repair considerations, and trim removal/installation.

Convertible Top Repair:

Specific instructions for the maintenance and repair of the convertible top mechanism and associated hydraulics/seals.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely a reproduction of the original printed manual, potentially scanned or digitally compiled. Clarity and searchability may vary.

Print Quality:

Varies depending on the source (original vs. reproduction). High-quality reproductions will have clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

Typically perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use during repairs.

Paper Type:

Often printed on durable paper stock to withstand shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3839 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1

Valve Train:

Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), per bank, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

155 hp @ 4750 rpm (US Specification)

Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (US Specification)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch CIS-E (Continuous Injection System - Electronic) Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline

Oil Capacity:

7.5 Liters (8.0 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 15W-40 or SAE 20W-50 (depending on climate)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (722.3)

Type:

None (Manual transmission not offered for 380SL in North America)

Shift Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes

Fluid Specification:

MB 236.1 or DEXRON-II compatible automatic transmission fluid

Capacity:

Approximately 8 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) for a complete fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4495 mm (177.0 in)

Width:

1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

1290 mm (50.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2460 mm (96.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1650 kg (3638 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2030 kg (4475 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data available for this specific year/model. However, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were known for robust construction and safety features for their time.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 1985 models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, seatbelt pretensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame and A-pillars for convertible models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-correct Becker or Blaupunkt AM/FM/Cassette stereo systems were common. Often offered with optional 4-speaker systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

HVAC System:

Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, utilizing R12 refrigerant for AC.

Convertible Top:

Power-operated convertible top with manual latches and a hardtop option.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommendations).

Major Service Interval:

Intervals for spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, and other components will be detailed in the manual, often around 30,000 miles.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to MB-Approval 325.0 for specific Mercedes-Benz coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 specification power steering fluid or DEXRON-II compatible fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Fuel distributor seals, vacuum hoses (especially on K-Jetronic), fuel pump relay, fuel accumulator, transmission mount, sway bar links, heater control valve, window regulators.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, intermittent issues with relays and switches.

Body Corrosion:

Susceptible to rust in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and under battery trays.

Oil Filter:

Commonly Mann-Filter HU 718/1 or Bosch 0 451 103 221 (verify with specific vehicle VIN)

Fuel Filter:

Commonly Mann-Filter WK 31 or Bosch 0 450 976 003 (verify with specific vehicle VIN)

Air Filter:

Commonly Mann-Filter C 37 206/2 or Bosch 1 457 433 701 (verify with specific vehicle VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety.

R107 Generation:

The R107 chassis was produced from 1971 to 1989, making it one of the longest-running Mercedes-Benz platforms. The 380SL was introduced in 1972 (as the 350SL, then upgraded to 380SL) and was a significant model within this successful roadster lineage.

380Sl Introduction:

The 380SL replaced the 350SL in 1980 globally, with the larger 3.8L V8 engine becoming standard in the US market starting with the 1981 model year. The 1985 model represents a mature iteration of the R107 design.

Production Period:

The R107 series, including the 380SL, was primarily manufactured in Stuttgart, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Acclaim:

The R107 series consistently received praise for its timeless design and build quality, earning it a place as a desirable classic car.

Classic Car Value:

Often featured in lists of classic luxury cars and appreciating modern classics due to its enduring appeal and Mercedes-Benz engineering.