This Mercedes 450SL represents a rare chance to own a highly coveted European convertible with timeless good looks that's not only logged an unusually low number of miles, but is also well-equipped and sporting a signature and factory-correct Mercedes hue. Better still, it has been left in stock configuration, runs great and stands at the ready to provide its next lucky owner with miles and miles of road-bound enjoyment. Considered part of the third generation of the SL class that debuted a year before this car saw the light of day, this model is prized by collectors with driving in mind and it's easy to see why. It features a wider wheelbase and a decidedly sturdier and more rugged look than its predecessors. Silver exteriors have become strongly associated with Mercedes' automotive creations throughout the years and the exterior on this one is looking especially good, still fresh and even all over, without any obvious signs of oxidation. From front to back, the evidence that this 450 has led a sheltered life are in abundance. The chrome looks clean and unpitted - even down to the unscuffed black rubber pads mounted on the bumpers - and the glass throughout remains crystal clear. Though most would picture themselves inside driving with the top down, in more challenging climates it's good to know that the manual black vinyl convertible top is in fine condition, raising and lowering easily, and the car also comes with a removable hardtop for a quieter ride. Look inside and you'll see a blue interior that's also both factory-correct and in an impressive condition to match the exterior. The bucket seats up front still look fresh, showing only very light use a nice dividend from having logged so few miles. This is a very well-preserved interior throughout, with door panels that still sit flush against their frames, a dash pad that bears no splits or warpage and an unusually clean center console. The expanse of blue carpet that runs underneath it all appears as if it's seen very few feet tread upon it. Take a look beyond the steering wheel and you'll see that the stock gauges are still easily readable through their transparent lenses. Unlike many convertibles from this era, this 450 has air conditioning, and it blows nice and cold thanks to a recent upgrade to R-134a through the very well-located registers on that impressive dash. The power windows roll up and down smoothly and even the AM/FM stereo is in good working order. This really is one impressive vintage convertible. When Mercedes opted to enlarge the 450SL, both to make it more appealing to larger drivers and to provide noticeably more shoulder and elbow room, they also upgraded the engine to keep performance up to their exacting standards. There's a 4.5 liter V8 sitting in the very tidy engine compartment that's paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes has long been lauded for the longevity of their cars, so this one, with just 45,000 miles under its proverbial belt, is just getting broken in it starts right up and idles very smoothly. Equipped with power steering and power brakes on all four corners, it's one classic car that's every bit as fun to drive as it is to look at. It sits on a set of 14" stock Mercedes wheels, wrapped in Michelin Weatherwise radials. Looking for a vintage European droptop with drop dead looks that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face as you slide behind the wheel? You have to check out this 1973 Mercedes 450SL. Call today!
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