Missing ID plate on 280 SL

[Dale71280SL]

I am thinking of purchasing a 1971 280SL that appears to have been beautifully restored, however it is missing the ID plate from the inside of the left front fender. Is this a major cause for concern as the numbers match on the hood, hard top and soft top cover.

[mdsalemi]

That's a good question...does anything look fishy?

Sometimes the data plates from the fire wall or the door frame are removed when the car is painted. I know mine were, and lost. But, they left the one you are talking about in place.

[wayne R]

Dale,If you are really serious about purchasing  this pagoda, try your best  to
get the owner to find out the reason ,what happened to it, how did it get lost,
if he can do some reserch from previous owners,why and how its missing.
Then if you buy , get all that info that the owner has provided to you in a
written letter and notarized,even though you can purchase a new repo replacement  plate,
experts will know ,later if you ever decide to sell your self ,and the written letter
will help you in this situation.

[Peter]

Hi Dale,
Do all numbers match with the data card?
If you don’t trust the data card you can ask MB a copy.
If numbers are correct with data card you should be save.
There are companies which can make a new plate.

^Peter

[Dale71280SL]

Thanks Wayne R. I can't tell from the pictures if the numbers match or if all the spot welds are there, however I am planning on traveling to see it soon. The seller says it is fully documented, so I will check it out. It is good to know they can be reproduced.

[mdsalemi]

Thanks Wayne R. I can't tell from the pictures if the numbers match or if all the spot welds are there, however I am planning on traveling to see it soon. The seller says it is fully documented, so I will check it out. It is good to know they can be reproduced.

If you are new to these cars, try finding someone in our group here local to where the car is for an inspection.