1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) is 1790 mm, or roughly 70.5 inches. This width provides a spacious and stable footprint, enhancing the car's road handling and offering ample shoulder room inside the cabin. The moderate width allows the R107 to combine classic roadster agility with a comfortable presence on the road, striking a balance between sporty appeal and daily usability.

The height of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) stands at 1300 mm, which is about 51.2 inches. This relatively low height contributes to the sleek, aerodynamic profile that is characteristic of classic two-door roadsters. A lower height helps reduce air resistance and lowers the center of gravity, improving handling performance while embodying the sporty silhouette synonymous with the SL line.

The curb weight of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) ranges between 1500 kg to 1585 kg (approximately 3307 to 3495 pounds). This weight range reflects the combination of the robust chassis, luxury appointments, and safety features integrated into the car. A curb weight in this range offers a good balance between stability and nimbleness, influencing comfort, fuel economy, and the overall driving experience by providing solid road grip without excessive heaviness.

The maximum weight capacity for the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) spans from 1920 kg to 2015 kg, equivalent to about 4233 to 4440 pounds. This figure indicates the highest total weight the vehicle can safely carry, including passengers, cargo, and fuel. Understanding this is important for safety, as exceeding the maximum weight can lead to compromised handling, braking, and increased tire wear, potentially risking vehicle control.

When the rear seats of the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) are folded down, the luggage capacity ranges from 252 to 261 liters (approximately 8.9 to 9.2 cubic feet). This capacity is practical for a roadster, offering enough space for weekend trips or daily errands despite the compact nature of the two-door configuration. It offers a nice compromise between sporty style and reasonable utility.

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) can comfortably fit into a standard residential garage. Its length of up to 4390 mm (about 14.4 feet), width of 1790 mm (approximately 5.9 feet), and height of 1300 mm (around 4.3 feet) make it relatively compact compared to modern vehicles. Most garages, which typically accommodate vehicles up to about 6 meters (20 feet) long and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) wide, will easily house the R107 with sufficient clearance for doors and maneuvering.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) is larger overall than its predecessor, the R113 (1963–1971). The R107's length increased to about 4370-4390 mm compared to the R113's shorter length of approximately 4290 mm (169 inches). Width and height also saw subtle increases, with the R107 being 1790 mm wide versus the R113's 1765 mm, and height remaining similar around 1300 mm. These dimensional enhancements provided the R107 with a more substantial road presence, improved interior space, and greater safety features, reflecting the evolution toward modern luxury and performance roadsters.

When compared with similar roadsters from the 1970s and early 1980s, such as the Jaguar XJS Convertible and the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, the Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) holds its own with a relatively larger footprint and more luxurious appointments. Its length of up to 4390 mm and width of 1790 mm gives it a stable and commanding stance relative to the often narrower and shorter competitors like the Jaguar XJS (approx. 4875 mm length, but wider) and Porsche 911 (shorter in length, approx. 4380 mm but narrower). The R107 prioritized comfort, safety features, and refinement, with solid build quality and a classic, understated design, distinguishing it from its sportier or more aggressive rivals.

The Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) typically comes equipped with rims sized 6.5J x 14 inches. The tire sizes vary depending on the model and specific configuration, including options such as 205/70 VR14, 195/75 R14, 195/70 R14, and 205/70 R14. These relatively sizable tires for the era provided excellent road grip and ride comfort, complementing the chassis' balance between sporty handling and cruising smoothness. The tire profiles contributed to a more cushioned ride, important for luxury roadsters designed for long-distance comfort.