1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL with 12,000 Miles Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has acquired a remarkably preserved 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL with just 12,000 original miles, showcasing the pinnacle of 1980s grand touring excellence. This radiant red roadster represents the most powerful and refined version of the celebrated R107 chassis, which was offered exclusively in the North American market from 1986 through 1989. The vehicle's exceptional condition and low mileage make it a significant addition to The Ron Sturgeon Collection, highlighting the enduring appeal of Mercedes-Benz engineering from this golden era.

Powering this classic cruiser is a 5.5-liter V8 engine factory-rated at 227 horsepower and 279 lb-ft of torque, delivering the smooth, authoritative performance that defined Mercedes-Benz during this period. The powertrain is complemented by a four-speed automatic transmission and limited-slip differential, creating a driving experience characterized by German precision and effortless power delivery. The chassis features power steering, fully independent suspension, and power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, providing the balanced handling and confident braking that contributed to the 560SL's reputation as a true grand tourer.

The interior serves as a time capsule of 1980s luxury and innovation, featuring automatic climate control, cruise control, electric windows, central locking, and even a period Carphone. The cabin is dominated by a factory Becker stereo system and classic VDO instrumentation, with a leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel framing a 170-mph speedometer, 7k-rpm tachometer, and comprehensive gauges monitoring coolant temperature, oil pressure, fuel economy, and fuel levels. This preservation of original features provides an authentic glimpse into the premium automotive experience of the late 1980s.

Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's exceptional condition, stating that it feels practically new despite being nearly four decades old. The museum, now located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, Texas, offers visitors the opportunity to experience this and other automotive treasures in its 150,000-square-foot facility. The DFW Car & Toy Museum provides free parking and admission while maintaining hours of operation from Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with additional information available through their website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

This 560SL acquisition matters because it represents one of the best-preserved examples of a model that marked the culmination of the R107 generation's 18-year production run. As the most powerful variant of this iconic chassis, the 560SL combined Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality with V8 performance and timeless styling that continues to resonate with collectors and enthusiasts. The vehicle's museum-quality preservation at just 12,000 miles makes it particularly significant for understanding the luxury automotive standards of the 1980s and demonstrates how German engineering from this period has stood the test of time.