Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) 350 SLC V8 (195 Hp)

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) 350 SLC V8 (195 Hp): A Classic Grand Tourer

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) 350 SLC V8 (195 Hp) represents a distinctive chapter in the German automaker’s illustrious history, serving as the fixed-roof, four-seater grand tourer counterpart to the iconic R107 SL roadster. Introduced in February 1976, this particular iteration, the 350 SLC, offered a compelling blend of luxury, V8 performance, and transatlantic cruising capability. While the R107 SL captured the hearts of many with its open-top allure, the C107 SLC provided a more practical, yet equally sophisticated, option for those desiring Mercedes-Benz elegance with enhanced interior space. This generation of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, produced from 1971 to 1989, became synonymous with robust engineering and timeless design, establishing a formidable reputation in the luxury car market. The 350 SLC, specifically, with its naturally aspirated V8 engine, embodied the era’s ideal of a refined, powerful touring coupe, designed for comfort over long distances rather than outright sports car agility.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107)

At the core of the Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) 350 SLC V8 lies the M 116 E 35 engine, a naturally aspirated V-eight powertrain renowned for its smooth operation and dependable performance. With an engine displacement of 3,499 cubic centimeters (or 213.52 cubic inches), this V8 configuration delivered a respectable 195 horsepower at 5500 rpm. Torque output was equally impressive for its time, peaking at 275 Nm (202.83 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm, providing ample thrust for effortless highway cruising and confident overtakes. The engine featured a multi-port manifold injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, a sophisticated setup that contributed to its refined power delivery and efficiency.

Mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, the 350 SLC was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9 seconds, and reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds. While not a blistering pace by modern standards, it was highly competitive for a luxury coupe in the mid-1970s, underscoring its grand touring credentials. The top speed was rated at 205 km/h (127.38 mph), allowing for sustained high-speed travel on the autobahns and interstates. Fuel economy, a less critical metric for luxury cars of this era, was nonetheless noted at around 13 liters per 100 km (18.1 US mpg) combined, a reasonable figure for a V8-powered vehicle of its size and weight. The car’s weight-to-power ratio stood at 8.2 kg per horsepower, or 122.6 horsepower per tonne, reflecting its solid construction and luxury appointments.

Design and Features of the C107 SLC

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) adopted a distinctive coupe body style with two doors and a surprisingly spacious interior configured for five occupants, a notable advantage over its two-seater SL sibling. Its design language was unmistakably Mercedes-Benz, characterized by clean lines, a prominent grille, and a long hood that hinted at the powerful engine beneath. The longer wheelbase, extended by 11.02 inches (2820 mm) compared to the SL, was a key differentiator, providing the necessary room for the rear seats without compromising the elegant profile. Measuring 187.01 inches (4750 mm) in length, 70.47 inches (1790 mm) in width, and 52.36 inches (1330 mm) in height, the SLC possessed a substantial road presence.

Inside, the C107 SLC offered a cabin trimmed with high-quality materials, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and durability. Features typical of the era included plush seating, wood trim accents, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. For a car of its time, the SLC was well-equipped in terms of driving dynamics and comfort. It featured a sophisticated suspension system with a double-wishbone setup and a transverse stabilizer at the front, complemented by a trailing arm and transverse stabilizer at the rear, ensuring a compliant ride quality suitable for long journeys. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, enhanced by hydraulic power steering, making the large coupe surprisingly manageable in varied driving conditions. The car rode on 205/70 R14 tires mounted on 6.5J x 14-inch wheel rims, a classic setup that contributed to both its aesthetic and handling characteristics.

Technical Specifications: Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) 350 SLC V8 (195 Hp)

Legacy and Market Impact

The Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) carved out a distinct niche in the luxury coupe market during its production run. While often overshadowed by its more famous roadster sibling, the SL, the SLC offered a unique proposition: a sophisticated, comfortable, and relatively spacious grand tourer with genuine V8 power. Its longer wheelbase and rear seating made it a more practical choice for families or those who frequently traveled with more than one passenger, differentiating it from purely sporting two-seaters.

In its primary markets, particularly Europe and North America, the SLC competed against other high-end luxury coupes and grand tourers of the era. Notable rivals included the Jaguar XJS, which offered a distinct British take on the luxury coupe with its V12 engine, and BMW’s 6 Series (E24), which provided a sportier, more driver-focused experience. The SLC distinguished itself with its legendary Mercedes-Benz build quality, reputation for reliability, and a more sedate, comfortable ride characteristic of the brand’s luxury philosophy. It was a vehicle designed for effortless, high-speed cruising, embodying the German concept of “Autobahn-proof” engineering.

Historically, the C107 SLC is significant for its role in expanding Mercedes-Benz’s luxury coupe offerings and demonstrating the versatility of the R107 platform. It also gained a unique association with motorsport, particularly in rally racing, where its robust construction and V8 power proved surprisingly effective, though this was generally with the larger engine variants. Today, the 350 SLC (C107) is recognized as a desirable classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its elegant styling, robust engineering, and the enduring appeal of its V8 engine. Its values in the classic car market have steadily appreciated, reflecting its status as a well-built, comfortable, and stylish piece of automotive history. It represents an era when Mercedes-Benz prioritized engineering excellence and uncompromising luxury, making it a timeless example of German automotive prowess.