VIN Plate for the Mercedes-Benz SL and SLC cars

This article discusses the VIN plate for the Mercedes-Benz SL and SLC cars (a.k.a. R107 series) with the main focus being on where to find it. The information herein is based on one of our project cars.


On this model, the VIN plate is in the driver side door jamb. Mercedes-Benz identifies a general body style with a three digit number. This particular style is number 107; the contemporary four-door style is number 116. For these styles, the VIN begins with these three digits. The next three digits typically identify a sub-model.

For example, the contemporary rare Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 model is sub-model 116036. These cars are in such high demand that a few forgeries have started appearing, with the 6.9 trunk lid badge, larger bumpers, drivertrain etc. specific bolted on later, but collectors tend to focus on the VIN. That`s hard to fake, because it`s not just on the door jamb but also on the “A” pillar, radiator mount and firewall.

The driver side door jamb is just the most accessible place to see the VIN, and it also has some additional useful information such as the month of manufacture. Our example car (VIN plate shown above) was made in November of 1979. Anything made after August of a particular year tends to pertain to the subsequent model year so this example is a 1980 model year.