1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SLC Coupe

The third-generation SL, designated the W107 by Stuttgart's design team, replaced the Pagoda-roof W113 in 1971 and was an altogether safer, more sophisticated and improved version of the classic two-seater Mercedes-Benz. Two versions of the SL were initially offered, the 280 SL with the classic twin-cam six-cylinder engine or the 350 SL with a new overhead-camshaft V8 using the latest Bosch electronic fuel injection, the latter available only in automatic guise. The rear suspension used semi-trailing arms, finally doing away with the swing axles of the previous SL, giving more predictable handling while the all-steel body introduced side protection in the doors in addition to the usual crumple zones and the W107 was dubbed der Panzerwagen due to the massive construction. Mercedes-Benz decided to offer a 2+2 fixed-head version of the W107 and the 350 SLC had a longer wheelbase to provide plenty of space for four adults - even the roofline was raised slightly so as not to compromise rear seat headroom. The SLC is still an excellent grand tourer, able to cover vast distances in comfort, with the added practicality of proper rear seats, a large boot - plus the added cache of the three-pointed star in the grille.