Online auctions such as Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Hemmings Auctions and the big live auction houses have become one of the main places R107s change hands. They can be a good way to buy, but you are buying from photos, video and comments, often from far away. This is the process I would follow.
What sells high
The R107s that bring the strongest prices at auction are usually:
- Low-mileage, documented cars with complete service records
- Original-paint cars with good panel gaps and no rust repair
- Late 560SLs and well-kept 380SLs and 450SLs in desirable colors
- Cars with both tops in good condition
- Cars with original window stickers, books, tool kits and data cards
Look at sold results for similar cars before bidding. See R107 prices over the years and the value guides for the 560SL, 380SL and 450SL.
Reading photos
- Underside photos: look for rust at the jacking points, the floors, the front subframe and the rear spring perches. See rust check.
- Engine bay: look for oil leaks, a tidy wiring harness and correct parts.
- Interior: check the dash for cracks, the seats and the carpet. See dashboard cracks.
- Panel gaps and paint: uneven gaps or color differences point to accident repair.
- Missing photos: a seller who does not show the underside or the trunk floor may be hiding something.
Questions to ask
- When was the timing chain and guides service done (especially on the 380SL)?
- Are there service records, and can I see them?
- Has the car had any rust or accident repair?
- Does the A/C work? Does the cruise control work?
- Are both tops included, and in what condition?
- Is the title clean and in the seller’s name?
- Can a third-party inspector see the car?
Ask in the auction comments so other bidders see the answers, or privately if the platform allows.
Fees
Most online platforms charge the buyer a fee on top of the hammer price. On Bring a Trailer, the buyer’s fee is a percentage of the sale price with a minimum and a cap; check the current terms before bidding, because they change. Live auction houses often charge a higher buyer’s premium. Add sales tax, registration and transport to your budget.
Shipping
Enclosed transport protects the car but costs more than open transport. Get quotes from established carriers and check insurance. Plan for the car arriving with a weak battery and old fuel if it has been sitting.
Remote inspection
A pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes specialist near the car is the best protection. Many inspection services will check the car, take photos and drive it. See pre-purchase inspection for what to check, and the buying guide for the full list.
Quick answers
- Is auction cheaper than a dealer? Sometimes, but strong cars often sell high at auction.
- Can I back out after winning? Usually not without penalties; read the terms.
- Should I set a maximum bid? Yes, including fees, and stick to it.
- Do auction cars need work? Almost every R107 needs something; budget for it.
