Mercedes-Benz SL and SLC (Osprey Expert Histories)

by L.J.K. Setright

hardcover with dust jacket This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0850456983
• ISBN13: 9780850456981
• Release Date: January 1986
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing
• Length: 136 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 7.1" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Good coverage of Pagodas and the 70s/80s SLs

The coverage here is of the 230sl through later 107 cars. Very little is included on the original 300SL, subsequent roadster and 190SL but these are better covered in texts devoted to this period in MB history. The reviewed and photographically documented cars are higher performance european models without the bastardized DOT additions such as cheapo sidemarkers, funky looking bumpers, and performance robbing and ineffective emission controls. The majority of model changes and options available are clearly called out. There are also a few shots of proper SL interiors the way the Mercedes designers intended them. This book would be helpful to readers trying to decide on which model Sl they might seek to purchase as well as those deciding the path they want to take in a proper restoration of their vehicle.

Strong on history and photos; not a buyer's guide

It says it right on the cover: "Osprey Expert Histories." And that's what this is. There's great info on the history of these cars, with insights on how they evolved technically and stylistically, and how their marketing changed over the years. The typeface is a little on the large side, but that just means there are more pages to print photos on: Virtually every page has at least one. I would say this book is a good value.Note that this is not a buyer's guide; there are no side-by-side charts of features and horsepower and units sold, and no commentary on what to look out for. Also note that its coverage is limited to the pagoda (1960s) and W107 cars (70s-80s). There are a couple of pages on the early 300SL, and none on the new (post-W107) styles of SL/SLK.