Mercedes 450SL - 1974

1974 Mercedes 450SL.

A top of the line sports luxury tourer that offers both performance and comfort. One of the most recognizable Mercedes luxury coupes of all time. Affordable, reliable classic car, providing enjoyable top-down motoring.

A phenomenally popular car, with well over a quarter-million of them made, from 1971 through 1989. Built when Mercedes-Benz was synonymous with "quality”. The engineers who designed it nicknamed it "der Panzerwagen" as one of their specifications was to meet or exceed stringent safety regulations.

Under the hoo, the R107 is powered by a V-8 engine. It sports an overhead cam and fuel injection.

Turn the key and the 4.5 liter V-8 makes a mild muscle-car rumble from the brand new stainless steel mufflers. The US-spec 3-speed automatic transmission is surprisingly nimble, able to cruise effortlessly at autobahn speeds, while also happily carving up any twisty backroad.

Highlights include brand new soft top, power windows, power brakes, power steering, new chrome wheels,. The 4.8 L v8 previously ran very well after roughly $ 10,000 in engine work but has been sitting for a few years as I have been stationed abroad. Not running now.

Aiming for quality repai, I have spent at least $ 10,000 on the engine at Don Pool Mercedes Specialist {Arlington, VA} and over $ 3600 at Euro Motors Bethesda.

The car has been greatly enjoyed but needs the finishing touches. It needs to be painted and the windshield is cracked. Interior needs some love and the trunk lock needs to be replaced. 159,066 miles.