🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 380SL Year: 1985 Codes Chassis Code: R107 Engine Code: M116 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer (GT), Convertible Target Audience: Affluent individuals seeking a stylish, comfortable, and high-performance convertible or coupe. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Jaguar XJS, BMW 6 Series, Porsche 928, Chevrolet Corvette (depending on market and specific model year). Key Features 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 Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 800+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Manual (likely repro or original) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered 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 Procedures Included 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. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Likely a reproduction of the original printed manual, potentially scanned or digitally compiled. Clarity and searchability may vary. Print Quality Print Quality: Varies depending on the source (original vs. reproduction). High-quality reproductions will have clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: Typically perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use during repairs. Paper Type Paper Type: Often printed on durable paper stock to withstand shop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine 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 Performance Horsepower: 155 hp @ 4750 rpm (US Specification) Torque: 195 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (US Specification) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch CIS-E (Continuous Injection System - Electronic) Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline Engine Oil Oil Capacity: 7.5 Liters (8.0 US Quarts) Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 15W-40 or SAE 20W-50 (depending on climate) Engine Cooling Cooling System Type: Pressurized liquid cooling system Coolant Capacity: Approx. 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Automatic (722.3) Optional Type: None (Manual transmission not offered for 380SL in North America) Features Shift Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes Fluid Type Fluid Specification: MB 236.1 or DEXRON-II compatible automatic transmission fluid Fluid Capacity Capacity: Approximately 8 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) for a complete fill 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4495 mm (177.0 in) Width: 1790 mm (70.5 in) Height: 1290 mm (50.8 in) Wheelbase: 2460 mm (96.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1650 kg (3638 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 2030 kg (4475 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings 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. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 1985 models. Passive Features 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 Infotainment Audio System: Period-correct Becker or Blaupunkt AM/FM/Cassette stereo systems were common. Often offered with optional 4-speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system. Climate Control Tech HVAC System: Manual or automatic...
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.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Likely a reproduction of the original printed manual, potentially scanned or digitally compiled. Clarity and searchability may vary.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Varies depending on the source (original vs. reproduction). High-quality reproductions will have clear text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding:
Typically perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use during repairs.
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Often printed on durable paper stock to withstand shop environments.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
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
Performance
Horsepower:
155 hp @ 4750 rpm (US Specification)
Torque:
195 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (US Specification)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch CIS-E (Continuous Injection System - Electronic) Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline
Engine Oil
Oil Capacity:
7.5 Liters (8.0 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-40 or SAE 20W-50 (depending on climate)
Engine Cooling
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (722.3)
Optional
Type:
None (Manual transmission not offered for 380SL in North America)
Features
Shift Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Fluid Type
Fluid Specification:
MB 236.1 or DEXRON-II compatible automatic transmission fluid
Fluid Capacity
Capacity:
Approximately 8 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) for a complete fill
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4495 mm (177.0 in)
Width:
1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
1290 mm (50.8 in)
Wheelbase:
2460 mm (96.9 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1650 kg (3638 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2030 kg (4475 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
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.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 1985 models.
Passive Features
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
Infotainment
Audio System:
Period-correct Becker or Blaupunkt AM/FM/Cassette stereo systems were common. Often offered with optional 4-speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Climate Control Tech
HVAC System:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, utilizing R12 refrigerant for AC.
Convenience Features
Convertible Top:
Power-operated convertible top with manual latches and a hardtop option.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
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.
Fluid Specifications
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.
Known Issues
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.
Filter Part Numbers
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
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety.
Model Evolution
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
Production Period:
The R107 series, including the 380SL, was primarily manufactured in Stuttgart, Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Acclaim:
The R107 series consistently received praise for its timeless design and build quality, earning it a place as a desirable classic car.
Ratings
Classic Car Value:
Often featured in lists of classic luxury cars and appreciating modern classics due to its enduring appeal and Mercedes-Benz engineering.