Almost 40 years on from its introduction, the R107 Mercedes-Benz SL is still turning heads. If one had to write a list of the most important Mercedes-Benz models of the 20th century, this roadster surely would be included. It has always been a personal favorite of mine, but aside from late model examples from 1986 through 1989, my favorite has to be the early models with the slim non-federalized bumpers. It lends an air of simplicity to an iconic design. Here’s an early, two owner 450SL with a nice patina for sale in Indiana with no reserve.
The seller states:
1973 Mercedes Benz 450SL, VIN: 10704412007462
NO RESERVE!!!! I Highly argue to come see this car!!!
Up for auction is well documented piece of machinery. This 450sl has all documentation since 1973-2011. It has original sticker. ALL service records done by mercedes. It has the data plate for the original owner. Has every book brochure and invoice attached to this car.This Benz has been garaged its whole life. It has been sitting for the past 6 years with less than 400 miles per year.
The car is in pristine condition. All chrome pieces are a 10 out of 10… NO dents. ALL is perfect. The undercarriage has no coating and it looks like it just came out of the factory. I have both hard and soft tops. Both tops are in mint condition. The hard top is all black. ALL wheels are in mint condition. leather there is no rips or tears. This car drives straight and extremely a smooth ride. NO problems at all.
The car is 2nd owner vehicle. Car was purchased brand new from Automaster Motor Co. inc. 1835 shelburne rd. South Burlington, Vermont. The car was ported from new york and shipped to Vermont.
The first owner owned it from 1973-2002. The second owner from 2002-2011 and current owner. This car is truly a unbelievable and rare oppurtunity to own this masterpiece. It is truly a must see.
The one good thing about the 450SL is that it is a rather understressed engine with the all important dual timing chains. The later, all aluminum 3.8 liter V8 in the 380SL had single timing chains, leading to a not so nice marriage of the valves with the pistons if not properly cared for. With a popular shade of resale silver and a few days left in the auction, I’d wager to say this example probably will fetch around the $15k mark. Then again, with over 20 bids already, it may reach higher. Hopefully this SL finds a good home and the third owner appreciates it as much as the first two.
-Paul
I don’t get a great feeling about the seller from the listing and his ebay feedback rating, but as you noted – there’s little question this is the right 450SL. Low-mileage, silver, early bumpers, clean and looks great. On my watch list.
Auction ended, item NLA