Most Americans have never seen a 420SL, because it was never sold in the US. It was the European and international replacement for the 380SL in the final years of R107 production, and it is one of the rarest R107 models.
Years and markets
The 420SL was introduced in late 1985 as part of the final R107 update, alongside the 300SL, the 500SL and the US-market 560SL. It was built until the end of R107 production in 1989 and sold mainly in Europe and other international markets, not in North America.
Engine
The 420SL uses the 4.2-liter M116 V8 with Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection. It was available with and without a catalytic converter depending on the market, which changed its power output. Published figures for the 420SL are around 218 hp (160 kW) for non-catalyst cars, with less for catalyst versions. See M116 vs M117 and KE-Jetronic for the engine and injection details.
How it compares with the 380SL
- Engine: the 420SL’s 4.2 liter is a development of the 3.8-liter M116 used in the 380SL, with more displacement and the later KE-Jetronic system.
- Power: a US 380SL made about 155 hp; a European 420SL made considerably more, partly because it had less emission equipment.
- Timing chain: the 420SL uses a double-row timing chain, avoiding the single-row chain issue of early 380SLs. See timing chain.
- Bumpers and lights: European bumpers and headlights, so the car is shorter and looks slimmer. See Euro headlights.
- Axle ratio: a tall 2.24 ratio, according to published tables. See axle ratios.
Production numbers
Production was small. Commonly cited figures put 420SL production at about 2,148 cars, making it one of the rarest R107 models. Figures vary slightly by source.
Importing one
A 420SL is more than 25 years old, so it can be imported into the US under the 25-year rule without meeting modern federal safety and emissions standards. You still need to follow customs, EPA and DOT import paperwork and your state’s registration and emissions rules. In Illinois, see antique plates and emissions. Parts for the 420SL are mostly shared with other R107s, though some engine and injection parts are specific.
Is it worth seeking out?
For an American enthusiast, a 420SL offers a lighter, European-spec R107 with a strong V8. Prices depend on condition and documentation more than on rarity alone. Check rust and service history as you would with any R107; see the buying guide.
Quick answers
- Was the 420SL sold in the US? No, not new.
- Is the 420SL faster than a US 560SL? Published figures put them close; it depends on specification.
- Does it have the 380SL chain problem? No, it uses a double-row chain.
- Are parts hard to find? Most parts are shared with other R107s.
