Often regarded as the one of the most timeless designs in Mercedes-Benz history, the R107-chassis SL convertible models featured technology and comfort far ahead of its' time, towhich industry experts attribute the model's rapidly-increasing valuation. The 450SL, equipped with the 4.5L V8 with fuel injection,and both a hard and soft-topis one of most reliable and sought after convertible SL models. Ultimately replaced by the less powerful 380 model, the 450SL has performance and comfort which matches it's exceptional styling.
Condition wise, this 1977 exampleshows some wear to the interior carpet and seats through minor fading/discoloration of the materials,though have no significant tears to note.Drivers seat bolster has minor wear (pictured) and seat mechanisms mayneed to be tuned or adjusted.Door grabs/ panels have some play/fitment concerns, though are complete and repairable. Dashboard has had a replacement pad installed. Body has been repainted at some point, and though there are no signs of any major rust issues or significant damages/accident fitment issues, the paint does have some checking and sun wear to it.
Mechanically, the vehicle is sound in core engine and transmission health. Oil samples were clean, coolant level is set correctly with no signs of any intermix failure or leakage. The engine fires up quickly with no abnormal noises (knocking/tapping) or excessive smoke. Internal components (pistons, bearings, etc.) appear to all be in good health. Vehicle does seem to be running on the rich side, indicative of required maintenance to the CIS system or ignition system potentially. Transmission shifts properly with no harsh jerking or delayed shifts, etc. Vehicle has no signs of any major oil leaks, it is dry consistently where it is parked long term.
This vehicle is a great starting point for either a restoration, or a fun-in-the-sun driver's quality vehicle. I have driven this vehicle at length and it is road-worthy as it sits, though some minor adjustments may be in store to increase it's performance/usability and overall driving experience.
We do not, unfortunately, have any history of the ownership, or any records on this particular unit, beyond what we were able to determine through the CA DMV. We found that the previous owner, who ultimately sold the vehicle this year, titled it in 2009 in California. Prior to that it was last titled, also in California, in 1998.Due to the age of the vehicle and lack of history, we can not determine the accuracy of the mileage. As such it is being sold mileage exempt and as-is with the buyer accepting the risk of any faults, mechanical or otherwise. We do make every effort to disclose all known faults with the vehicle, but ultimately, we recommend the purchaser organize a pre-purchase inspection (at purchaser's cost), prior to bidding, to ensure that any questions regarding condition can be clarified.
We can arrange COD shipping within the contiguous 48 statesthrough a non-affiliated brokerage on behalf of the purchaser, or we can assist in coordination with any shipping company which the buyer arranges.
Payment is due, within 72 hours of close of sale, via certified funds (wire, cashiers check). Unfortunately due to processing costs we do not accept credit cards for vehicle purchases.
Fees will include a standard 164.30 document fee and applicable state taxes. If you are a resident of Illinois, or a state which Illinois has taxation reciprocity with, sales tax will be charged according to the reciprocal sales taxation rates currently published by the Illinois department of revenue. IF you are an Illinois resident you will be subject toa $95.00 title fee and a $25.00 ERT filing fee. Title and vehiclewill be released upon confirmation of clearing of funds, and titlewill be delivered to the appropriate party via FedEx with direct signature required or in person.