1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL, part of the long-running R107 series, was among the last 450 SL produced before it was replaced by the 380 SL in 1981. Known for its blend of luxury, performance, and timeless design, the 450 SL was a symbol of success and sophistication throughout the 1970s and early ’80s. 

Under the hood, the 1980 450 SL featured a 4.5-liter V8 engine, producing around 160 horsepower (U.S. version), that was paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. While not a sports car in the traditional sense, the 450 SL offered smooth, confident performance, and a refined driving experience. The car’s rear-wheel-drive layout, independent suspension, and disc brakes on all four wheels contributed to its handling and ride comfort. 

The 450 SL came with a removable hardtop and a folding soft top, giving drivers the flexibility of a coupe or convertible. Inside, it featured leather upholstery, wood trim, and power accessories. 

"Few convertibles feel as bank-vault solid as the SL," Car and Driver wrote. "Every switch, every seam, speaks to Mercedes-Benz’s obsession with quality ... The R107 SL was the car you bought when you’d made it. Elegant, understated, and unmistakably European." 

Highlights 

• Recently refinished in Signal Red (5680) with chrome trim above wheels wells and along the sides and rocker panels 

• Black leather (101) interior 

• Powered by a 4.5-liter V8 (M117) rated at approximately 160 hp 

• Three-speed automatic transmission 

• New steering box and fuel pump 

• Fuel system purged and fuel tank cleaned and refurbished 

• Factory options include: 

  • 416 – Hardtop mounted 

  • 440 – Tempomat (Cruise control) 

  • 467 – Central locking mechanism and instruments with English lettering 

  • 491 – U.S. version 

  • 502 – Outside rearview mirror (passenger side) 

  • 518 – Becker AM/FM/Cassette stereo (USA) 

  • 524 – Paintwork preservation 

  • 531 – Automatic antenna 

  • 570 – Folding armrest (front) 

  • 587 – Automatic climate control and electric window lifters (front doors) 

  • 592 – Heat-insulating glass all around with heated rear window, band filter 

  • 640 – 15-hole light allow rims 

  • 740 – Black soft top fabric

Features 

• Woodgrain dash trim and center console 

• Air conditioning 

• Cruise control 

• Blaupunkt AM/FM/CD stereo 

• 85 mph speedometer and 7000 rpm tachometer 

• Alloy wheels with Mercedes-Benz hubs 

• Westlake Radial RP18 205/70R14 tires 

• Four-wheel disc brakes 

• Independent suspension 

• New battery 

Known Imperfections 

• Scuffs on wheels 

Included 

• Hardtop with stand 

• Keys 

Ownership History 

The New York seller of this 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL has owned it since October 2024.