1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

In the spring of 1971, the Mercedes-Benz 350 SL made its debut, replacing the 280 SL. Despite sharing basic components with other Mercedes-Benz models like the "Stroke Eight" for suspension and the V8 engine from the 280 SE 3.5, the new model was offered with significant technical advancements. Retaining the two-seater configuration and retractable roadster hood of its predecessor, the 350 SL marked a departure towards a more comfortable yet powerful luxury approach, departing from the strictly hard sports car ethos. In April 1973, a more powerful 4.5-liter V8 engine option became available, marking a significant enhancement in performance. Notably, a low-compression 195 horsepower version of this engine had been available for export since July 1971, complying with stringent US emissions regulations. Internally coded as “R 107,” it introduced innovations aimed at enhancing both passive and active safety, such as relocating the fuel tank to a collision-resistant position above the rear axle and incorporating features like an upholstered dashboard, flexible switches, and a four-spoked steering wheel with enhanced safety features. Further advancements included wind deflector profiles at the A-pillars for drainage and visibility improvement in adverse weather, along with visible indicators and ribbed taillights for better visibility and soil-repellent properties, respectively. These developments underscored Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety and innovation in automotive design. 

Highlights 

• Finished in two-tone Autumn Biege (430) with a Dark Red (542) removable hard top 

• Mahogany MB-Tex interior with color-keyed carpets 

• Brown folding soft top 

• Powered by a 4.5-liter “M117” V8 mated to a three-speed automatic transmission 

• Full wheel covers with correctly painted centers to match the removable hard top 

• The options plate reveals the following information: 

  • 467 – Central locking system with instrumentation in English 

  • 491 – U.S. Version 

  • 502 – Outside rearview mirror on the right 

  • 513 – Becker Europa radio 

  • 585 – Behr air conditioning with electric window lifters 

  • 595 – Green heat-insulating glass 

• Numerous early production features, including the unique bumpers, steering wheel, mirrors, and wiper stalk 

• Offered with just over 120,000 miles at the time of listing, which is believed to be original 

Features 

• Air conditioning  

• Power steering 

• Fog lights  

• Power disc brakes  

• Door-mounted map pockets  

• Power steering 

• Reclining bucket seats 

• Bumper over riders 

• Adjustable headrests  

• Tachometer 

• Locking glove box 

• Dual sun visors with a passenger-side vanity mirror 

• Fully carpeted trunk 

• Pinstriping 

• JVC AM/FM radio 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor discoloration and wear are pictured on the driver’s seat 

• Failed seat back padding on both seats 

Ownership History 

The current owner of this 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL reports purchasing the car over 20 years ago, and it was in Arkansas and Missouri.  

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. 

Contact: Craig Zimmerman  Phone: 586.707.5811‬  email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com