The 1987 560SL: The Truth About 'German Engineering'

The 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL Is Proof We Took A Wrong Turn They say "they don't make them like they used to." Usually, that’s nostalgia. In the case of the R107 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL, it is a quantifiable engineering fact. This car represents the final moment in automotive history before "cost optimization" replaced "over engineering" as the dominant philosophy. In this episode, we dissect the 1987 560 SL not as a classic collectible, but as a standard of build quality. We look at the physics of the M117 V8, the "bank vault" construction, and the specific reasons why modern luxury cars feel flimsy by comparison. OWNER INTEL WARNING: If you are shopping for an R107, you need to know about the "Shopping List of Doom." We cover the timing chain guides, subframe mounts, and vacuum system failures that can turn a $15k bargain into financial ruin. Tech Specs (The Numbers): - Engine: 5.6L M117 V8 (Naturally Aspirated) - Output: 227 hp @ 4750 rpm / 279 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm - Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic - Curb Weight: 3,670 lbs The Reality: 0-60 in ~7.0 seconds (but that's not the point). 2023 Mercedes-AMG SL 63: The Fusion of High-Tech and Driving Performance https://youtu.be/NXGV_ROch_U ——————————————————————— // MY AMAZON STORE with my favorite things for drivers https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-4cc174af (this is an affiliate link) /// MERCH Pick up some sweet merch in our store! https://brian-makse-shop.fourthwall.com/ /// SUBSCRIBE Subscribe NOW to Brian Makse's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=brianmakse /// SOCIAL Instagram: http://Instagram.com/BrianMakse Twitter: http://Twitter.com/BrianMakse Facebook: http://Facebook.com/MakseAttack Spotify: https://sptfy.com/brianmakse Link In My Bio: https://makse.com/linkinbio/ /// MORE About Brian: http://makse.com/about /// WHAT I'M LISTENING TO Real AF With Andy Frisella https://andyfrisella.com/blogs/realaf-podcast Be sure to let us know what you think about this video and smash the subscribe button if you haven’t already! Test vehicles are provided by the respective manufacturers for review purposes, unless otherwise noted, and all opinions are our own. Music © 2026 Russell Soares (russellsoares.com), used with permission, all rights reserved. #MercedesBenz #560SL #R107 #ClassicCars #GermanEngineering #BrianMakse #SaveTheManuals #CarReview