Description
The Mercedes-Benz SL R107 is arguably one of the most versatile classics in existence. Sporty yet comfortable, sturdy yet full of character, a choice made with both heart and head. A jack-of-all-trades that quickly became evident would also make a significant impact in America. It is no wonder the SL has been such a huge success; it’s simply one of the best options available at that time. This dark blue 450 SL from 1974 is one such all-rounder, and furthermore, it’s in a remarkable condition and configuration.
The first owner of this Mercedes-Benz 450 SL ordered their car in dark blue with dark blue leather upholstery and a dark blue convertible top – a ‘triple blue’ setup. A stunning combination that exudes style and adds extra flair to the car. The fact that the buyer also opted for the smooth V8 engine speaks volumes about their taste. With 225 horsepower, the 450 is the second most powerful version after the 500 (and the American 560). With its beautifully arranged V8 engine producing a delightful sound, there’s ample torque and power over the whole range. Smooth, strong, and elegantly spirited. In short: a versatile performer.
The 450 SL you see here has only clocked up 92, 413 miles, or 148, 724 kilometers. The condition of the car can only be described as being incredibly good. A vehicle in truly fantastic shape, no matter where you look, touch, or experience. The car comes equipped with factory-installed air conditioning and cruise control. Its mechanical condition is simply fantastic. Recently, over €20, 000 was invested with a classic car specialist to bring the car back up to exceptional condition. The result is superb: both the exterior, interior, and the mechanical components are flawless.
The blue body is in concours condition and boasts a very fine paint finish. Although the body has received a new coat of paint at some point, it’s consistent and thin across all parts. It’s evident that the fitment of the body panels, the edges of individual parts, and the glossy paint are in perfect condition throughout.
The interior smells and feels new, and unsurprisingly, it looks the same way. Not a scratch on the dashboard, not a crease in the upholstery – this must have been the sensation of stepping into the dealer’s showroom in 1974 and taking a seat behind the wheel of an exclusive roadster. ‘Einfach Fabelhaft,’ the salesperson at that dealership would have told you.
The mechanical state of this Sport Leicht – which is what SL stands for – is excellent. We’ve already mentioned the recent maintenance, but in this case, we’re happy to emphasize it once more: in the past year, twenty thousand euros were invested in the SL to restore it to peak condition. The invoices for this work are naturally available, showing that the car has essentially undergone a technical restoration. The smoothly shifting automatic transmission and the reassuring brakes enable you to fully enjoy and embrace the 225 horsepower delivered by the eight-cylinder engine.
This 450 SL is essentially as good as new, from front to rear bumper, and from the convertible top to the sills. It is ready to be enjoyed occasionally or to embark on numerous incredibly enjoyable journeys.