1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The world was introduced to just the third generation of Mercedes-Benz SL in the spring of 1971 with the launch of the ‘R107.’ This generation transformed the SL range into a high-performance luxury roadster, and was the first SL to be equipped with a V8 engine. Initially offered as a 3.5-liter, and shortly thereafter, a 4.5-liter was also offered beginning in 1973. Designed with a folding soft top and removable steel hardtop, these cars combine the dynamism of an open roadster with the year-round convenience of a closed coupe. With classic Teutonic styling, these cars have gracefully aged into their role as beloved and wonderfully versatile classics of the Mercedes-Benz range. 

Highlights

• Finished in Signal Red over a Black MB-Tex interior

• Equipped with a body-colored hardtop

• Outfitted with the rarely seen ‘Kindersitze’ rear seat

• The wheels have been upgraded to 16-inch Centra alloys

• Upgraded JVC radio with additional speakers

• The soft top was replaced in June 2022 with one from GAHH for a total of $1,500, as per the consignor

• Service work in 2019 saw the replacement of the transistor ignition box, fuel distributor, warm-up regulator, fuel injectors, spark plugs, fuel filter, fuel pump, brake master cylinder, both front tie rod assemblies, center drag link, and more, followed by an alignment for over $3,200

• The water pump, belts, and radiator hoses were replaced in 2017, with the invoice totaling nearly $1,300

• Please note that while the odometer displays just under 103,000 miles, the true mileage is unknown

Features

• Automatic climate control

• Central locking

• Power windows

• Power antenna

• Heated hardtop rear window

• Power steering

• Four-wheel power disc brakes

• Cruise control

• Fog lights

• Cigar lighter

• Heat insulating glass

• Reclining bucket seats with adjustable headrests

• Footwell illumination

• Center armrest

Known Imperfections

• Power antenna is inoperable and bent to keep it in the raised position

• Failing clear coat on the trunk lid

• Staining on the wheels

• Cracked dashboard and wood trim

• Damaged interior trim

• Rust present on the hardtop and above the front left headlight

• The passenger side sun visor has been removed but comes with the car

• Inoperable cruise control and air conditioning

• The consignor states that the odometer intermittently does not function

Included

• Owner’s manual

• Passenger side sunvisor 

Ownership History

The current owner of this 1978 Mercedes–Benz 450 SL purchased this car in 2015 and is believed to be just the third owner.