1978 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

SL Convertible

8 - Cyl.

Automatic

107.04412047672

Clear

Gasoline

Description: Not many cars look better in red than this 1978 Mercedes-Benz 450SL. Fewer still can truly be called timeless but this SL definitely qualifies. Even today nearly 25 years after they went out of production they still command respect from the general masses and remain grade-A cars to own and drive and represent huge bang for the buck. Like tuxedos Mercedes roadsters always look best in black. This 450SL represents the high-water mark for the R107 roadster a near-ideal blend of style and luxury that made it the premier luxury car of the era. The paint remains in exceptionally good condition given the car's age a testament to the quality of the original materials and the care this car has received over the past two-and-a-half decades. Gaps and panel fit are to typical German standards and remain excellent today. All the chrome and stainless remains bright and the US-spec rubber bumpers which usually suffer from degradation in the sunlight remain supple and clear. It's obvious someone loved this car for many years. Black seats are a sporting compliment to the red paint beautifully rendered in MB-Tex that is comfortable and durable. The interior's condition strongly suggests that it has been well maintained since new: the seats are in new condition the carpets are as well. You'll also note that everything was standard on an SL ranging from automatic climate control to power windows and the original stereo has been recently upgraded with a Kenwood AM/FM/CD head unit and a set of fresh speakers in the package shelf area. Overhead there's a red convertible top and all SLs of this vintage came standard with matching hardtops. The 4.5 liter V8 is a wonderful machine torquey and smooth with a fantastic bubbly exhaust note that sings in appropriately hushed tones thanks to a correct exhaust system. Known for their longevity these engines are virtually indestructible given proper maintenance and will happily run for hundreds of thousands of miles with just gas and oil changes. Judging by the underhood area this one has been lovingly maintained. A 3-speed automatic transmission was standard equipment on US-bound SLs. The fully independent suspension rides extremely well yet gives the roadster competent handling when the road turns aggressive and strong disc brakes at all four corners shed speed without concern. And while rust is always the enemy this car has spent its life in Oklahoma because it's amazingly clean and solid throughout. This is a gorgeous 450SL with a clean bill of health. Bid today!