1974 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The Mercede-Benz SLC, which debuted at the Paris Motor Show in October 1971, succeeded the 280 SE and 280 SE 3.5 coupe models, which ceased production in June and August 1971, respectively. Series production of the newcomer, internally designated as the C 107, commenced in February 1972, four months following its premiere. Unlike its predecessors, the new coupe wasn't based on an upper-class limousine but rather shared its platform with the sporting new 350 SL, introduced six months earlier. Both variants were nearly identical up to the door's rear edge, with differences becoming apparent in the rear half of the car. The SLC featured a lengthened wheelbase, providing a more spacious interior and accommodating four full-sized seats. Numerous construction details, initially introduced for safety purposes in the 350 SL, were seamlessly integrated into the SLC. Notably, the fuel tank was relocated from the rear end to above the rear axle. The interior boasted a heavily padded dashboard, deformable switches and controls, and the new four-spoke security wheel with impact absorber and broad impact cushion, all contributing to enhanced crash protection. These safety enhancements represented a significant leap forward in automotive design and engineering during the early 1970s. 

Highlights 

• Finished in Beige Grey Metallic (728) with a Parchment Leather (205) interior 

• Powered by a 4.5-liter “M117” V8 with Bosch electronic fuel injection rated at 225 horsepower 

• Three-speed automatic transmission 

• A Rest of World (RoW) example with many unique features, including sleek chrome bumpers and single-piece Bosch glass headlights 

• The option plate shows the car was equipped with the following items 

  • 248 – Electrically heated rear window 

  • 466 – Central locking system 

  • 532 – Automatic antenna without a radio set 

  • 586 – Air conditioning with power windows front and rear 

• Displaying just under 178,000 believed to be original kilometers or the equivalent of just over 110,000 miles 

Features 

• Power steering 

• Power disc brakes 

• Front axles with double wishbones and anti-dive control 

• Rear axles with brake and starting torque compensation 

• Anatomically contoured seats 

• Continuous warm or cold air flow with draught-free ventilation 

• Heating controlled separately for the right and left sides 

• Chrome bumpers 

• Two-speed windshield wipers 

• Frameless side windows 

• Front fog lights 

• 14 inch light alloy “Bundt” wheels 

• Floor-mounted gear selector 

• Locking glove box 

• Door-mounted map pockets 

Known Imperfections 

• Inoperable radio 

• Minor damage to the bumper impact strips 

• Minor rust 

Included 

• Collapsable warning triangle in its original case 

• Original first aid kit 

Ownership History 

The current owner of this 1974 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC reports that the car was purchased new in Germany and imported to the United States by them in the 1970s. Upon their passing, the car was placed into storage for approximately 20 years, where it was purchased by the second owner, who replaced the condenser and acid-washed the gas tank prior to resealing it. The current and believed to be the third owner purchased the car in October 2023.