1979 Mercedes-Benz 450SL Roadster Convertible Hardtop

1979 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster Description

1979 Mercedes-Benz 450SL Roadster Convertible/Hardtop

This 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450SL is best described as a contemporary classic. Its timeless body design is still regarded as a graceful and elegant shape, its 4.5-liter V-8 engine still delivers performance on par with contemporary standards and its 4-wheel independent suspension still delivers excellent cornering capability while maintaining a supple ride quality. Simply stated, the Mercedes-Benz 450SL never went out of style. First introduced into the American market in 1972, the 450SL—internally referred to as the C107—had an amazing production run of 18 years. The reasons for its longevity were its sound design and excellent build quality. North America was the primary market for this personal luxury car where two-thirds of its total production output were sold. This particular Mercedes-Benz is of 1979 vintage and is the last year the 450SL came with the large-displacement 4.5-liter, single overhead cam, V-8 engine and the 3-speed automatic transmission. In 1980, Mercedes-Benz dropped this drivetrain arrangement for the 3.8-liter engine and the 4-speed automatic transmission for reasons of ever stringent emission-control standards and EPA mileage requirements. This resulted in a substantial drop in horsepower—from 190 horsepower to 155 horsepower—and a corresponding drop in torque from 240 lb-ft at 3,000 RPM to 196 lb-ft at 2,750 RPM. It is this performance differential that makes the 1979 and earlier model years of the 450SL the most desirable within the C107 series. These cars were built to an extremely high standard of construction—the doors shut with a bank-vault firmness and the entire structure is solid and devoid of any shakes or rattles. Presented in classic Silver exterior with a contrasting Red leather interior, this fully optioned 450SL comes complete with its original steel hardtop.

The exterior color is Anthracite metallic with a Red leather interior. The interior is in very good shape as is all the trim, wood and carpets. On the exterior there are a few tiny chips that have been touched up over the years, several small scratches, and one ding on the Trunk deck, but for a 38 year old car it really looks great! All the mechanicals on the car work except the climate control. The soft top is like new, Mercedes cloth in dark charcoal color; the plastic windows are clear and crack free. The sound system is the original Blaupunkt and it works perfectly. The trunk is equally clean; good carpets, no stains or smells, no broken pieces. The original spare tire is in the trunk and has probably never been used, still has the original Mercedes tire placard! Car also has the original color matching hardtop in good shape, original Mercedes owner manuals including Maintenance stamps up to 78,000 miles and original Mercedes first aid kit.
These cars are collectible and on the rise in values.
Buyer is Responsible for all costs related to pickup and or Shipping. I will assist in whatever way possible.
All sales are final. No Warrantee expressed or implied. Personal or third Party Inspections welcomed and encouraged.