1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

Year:	1978
Make:	Mercedes-Benz
Model:	450 SL
Price:	$10,900

Description:

This 1978 Mercedes-Benz 450SL has the rock solid feel that is unique to the Mercedes while being a spirited performer. This car has the factory hardtop in the famous—and highly desirable—Pagota configuration. You simply cannot find a nicer example at such a reasonable price.

At the outset, one is impressed with how clean and bright this SL presents itself. The car is finished in blue, having undergone a quality repainting that resulted in a very fresh and shiny finish. The chrome is all in very good condition, as is the glass. There are no dents or dings, contributing to the conclusion that this is a car that was well taken care of. Although garaged, the car was kept under a light dust cover to keep it looking new.

The interior is finished in a matching blue. The seats have no holes or tears, but they would benefit from a dye respray to freshen the surfaces that have aged with use. This SL has a full set (including headrest covers) of sheepskin-style seatcovers finished in blue. The carpet is also blue and there is a second set of floor mats that will convey with the car.

Looking out at the dash, the instruments are all clean and functioning—including the clock, and the Becker AM/FM radio with an automatic power antenna works well. The dash is free of cracks and looks almost new. Of course all of the safety equipment—lights, horn, wipers, turn signals, etc.—is working properly. This car is equipped with climate control; and while the system is complete and compressor/clutch appear to be functioning properly, it does not blow cold.

Mechanically, the V8 engine starts right up and runs smoothly. The 4.5 liter engine provides plenty of power for this car and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly to match your driving style. There is a virtually new set of four 205/70R/14 radials mounted on M-B rims and the owner also has another set of wheels that will go with the car.

This is a very nice example of one of the earlier SLs—nice body and paint, mechanically in good condition, almost new tires, factory hard and soft tops—at the price of an MGB or TR6! Whether with the top down or the Pagoda top installed, this is a classy sports car that can be driven tomorrow and outclass similarly priced—but lesser—quality cars.