1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1985 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: rust and corrosion (major severity).
- No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 1987 model year.
1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) remains an automotive icon, offering unparalleled classic luxury and robust German engineering. However, owning one today is a commitment; expect significant maintenance demands and a diligent search to find a well-preserved example, making it a purchase for the dedicated enthusiast, not the casual buyer.
The 1987 Mercedes-Benz SL is a beautiful, well-engineered classic that offers a fantastic ownership experience for the right person. However, it is not a car for the financially unprepared or the mechanically unskilled. A meticulous pre-purchase inspection and a significant repair fund are non-negotiable for anyone…
Best Model Years
Later 560SL models (1986-1989) are generally considered the most refined and desirable for their larger engine and improved amenities.
Years to Avoid
Earlier 450SL models (pre-1976) can be more problematic due to the less reliable D-Jetronic fuel injection system and potentially weaker timing chains.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust M117 V8 engine (560SL)
- Exceptional build quality for its era
- Timeless design and strong classic car market appeal
1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Commonly found in front fenders, lower door sills, jacking points, battery tray, and trunk floor. Often hidden beneath paint or carpet, leading to structural integrity issues if not addressed.
Power window motors/regulators fail, automatic climate control units develop faults, instrument cluster gauges can become erratic, and various relays (e.g., fuel pump, OVP) degrade. Rubber wiring insulation also becomes brittle.
Issues with the K-Jetronic fuel injection system (injectors, warm-up regulator), fuel pump failure, and fuel accumulator leaks are common due to age and ethanol in modern fuels.
1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Service & Assessment Zone
At this mileage, an R107 is likely still in very good condition if regularly driven and maintained. Focus on fluid changes, tire age, and addressing any early signs of rubber component degradation.
Preventative Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the onset of age-related wear for many rubber components, seals, and some electrical items. Proactive replacement of these parts is crucial to prevent cascading failures.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect significant age-related wear on major components. Deferred maintenance at this stage becomes very costly. A comprehensive engine and transmission assessment is highly recommended.
High Risk & Restoration Zone
Cars at this mileage without extensive restoration will likely need major mechanical work. Rust will be a major concern, and multiple systems will require significant attention. Only for those prepared for a full-scale project.
1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$1,000-1,800
Moderate Repairs
$1,500-3,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Last?
While low-mileage examples fetch premium prices, a higher-mileage SL with documented, consistent maintenance is often a safer and more transparent purchase than a low-mileage, neglected 'barn find.'
What 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Timeless, elegant styling that turns heads everywhere.
- Solid, bank-vault-like build quality and a substantial road presence.
- Comfortable and smooth cruising experience, excellent for long drives.
- Strong classic car investment potential if well-maintained.
Common Frustrations
- High costs for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs.
- Frustrating and expensive electrical gremlins due to aging components.
- Pervasive rust issues that can be difficult and costly to fully eradicate.
- Not a 'sports car' in terms of handling; more of a grand touring cruiser.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?
Best For
- Classic car enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude or a trusted independent Mercedes specialist.
- Collectors seeking a timeless and appreciating asset.
- Individuals looking for a comfortable weekend cruiser, not a daily driver.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking an economical convertible.
- Anyone expecting modern car reliability and performance.
How the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Compares to Rivals
The R107 offers a distinct old-world luxury and robust construction that surpasses many contemporaries, yet its age and complexity mean it cannot compete with modern vehicles for low-stress ownership. It occupies a unique space between classic collectible and usable cruiser.
More Reliable Than
- Contemporary Fiat 124 Spider (in terms of build quality)
- Many British roadsters of the era (e.g., MG B, Triumph TR6, for parts availability and mechanical robustness)
- Some limited-production exotic sports cars of the 70s/80s (for practicality and parts network)
Comparable To
- Porsche 911 (air-cooled, older generations, in terms of ownership cost and maintenance philosophy)
- BMW E24 6-Series (similar blend of luxury, performance, and age-related maintenance)
- Jaguar XJS (similar target market and complexity)
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class
No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.
What breaks on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 1987 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class? Keep it that way.
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