Book excerpt: It’s hard to believe, but the 107-series Mercedes-Benz SL was launched almost 40 years ago. However, its timeless styling has kept it fresh and attractive in the eyes of a new generation of enthusiasts, as well as those going back to the car having owned one when they were still in dealerships. The availability of the practical SLC (an extended, four-seater fixed-head coupé version), simply adds to the desirability of these classic German machines. A combination of superb original design, peerless engineering and build quality has ensured that many of these cars can still be seen in regular use today. Covering the SL and SLC’s ever-changing specification, race and rally record – and its presence in many of the world’s major markets – is a huge task, but it’s all presented here in definitive detail, along with stunning contemporary photography, in a volume that will readily grace any reference library shelf or connoisseur’s coffee table.