1980 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

- 450 SL - Convertible

8 - Cyl.

Automatic

WDBRF81J04F520454

Gasoline

* * * 1980 Mercedes 450SL * * * 2 owners, 85K original miles Recent service receipts Affordable, versatile collectible  Up for bids here on eBay is this nicely preserved 1980 Mercedes 450SL.  Having just 2 owners, the car was sold new in Bend, Oregon and has remained local ever since.  Always garaged, the car maintains a fresh, clean appearance.  It was recently subject to a comprehensive servicing ($3800 receipt included) which included all new brakes, full tuneup, and repair of various age related issues.  The car is an excellent example of the venerable R107 series, it is ready to be driven and enjoyed.   Click to enlarge any of the photos below, a link to a slideshow of all englarged images is available at the bottom of the page. This car is finished in a rare combination of Champagne (Gold) paint with a Chestnut colored leather interior.  The paint is mostly original and still looks super after 30 years, this car has obviously led a garaged life.  The body is arrow straight with very well maintained paint - smooth, glossy and still looking like new.  You'll find no rust issues anywhere on this car, undercarriage included.  On close inspection you will find a few tiny dings here and there, the biggest flaw being a series of small scrapes where the hardtop mounts, a photo is included further below.  That's about the only thing I can find to pick on with this car, otherwise it's pretty much a time warp ride back to 1980. All chrome and trim on the car are very nice, all of the glass is original and in great shape, even the windshield.  All lights and signals on the car work as they should, lenses are crystal clear with no cracks or fading.  Bumpers show some light scuffing but no dents or dings.  Tires are in great shape, they are 1000 miles from new. The soft top is original to the car and still in good shape.  The windows are clear and pliable although the corner windows each show a very small crack right in the center from 30 years of folding.  The soft top compartment is clean and dry.  The 4th photo shows the car's biggest flaw, a series of  small scrapes where the hardtop mounts, a pretty common sight on these cars. The hardtop is overall in good shape, although the headliner does show one small tear, visible in the photo below.  The hardtop is a big part of what makes these cars so versatile.  Due to their over-engineered design, they transform this car into a snug, soundproof coupe for winter time driving. The interior of this car is very well preserved, the chestnut colored leather seats are are a nice compliment to the exterior color.  The driver's seat shows some wear on the left side bolster, otherwise both seats are still looking good after 30 years.  The leather has aged very well, it remains pliable and has developed a nice looking patina.  The carpet is clean throughout, still looking like new.  All of the car's weatherstripping is original and in good condition. All lights and signals operate correctly.  The power windows operate smoothly.  Cruise control works. The Becker Grand Prix cassette radio is original to the car, it powers on but doesn't have sound.  Becker USA offers repair service for these valuable classic radios.  Climate control is functioning correctly, although the air conditioning does not blow cold.  If the car stays in the US I will have the AC charged before delivery at no cost, if it goes overseas the systems needs to be purged of refridgerant per Customs regulations. All gauges work correctly and show good readings.  Clock keeps accurate time.  The dash shows no cracks at all, another clue to its garaged existence.  The fragile integrated speaker grilles, left and right, are both in great shape. The door panels are crisp and straight, not sun baked like some.  All of the car's weatherstripping is original and still very nice.   The car comes with a full assortment of manuals and brochures. Also included is the original tool kit, first aid kit, plus the original spare and jacking equipment. The car drives wonderfully from start to finish.  Offers loads of power delivered with absolute decorum.  Ride quality is first rate, quiet and solid.  The car shifts well, brakes well and drives like you would expect of a low mileage SL.  Undercarriage is clean and correct, showing absolutely no damage history or evidence of rust.  The car is not a leaker and will not leave any drips or drops on your garage floor. I mainly sell 1963-1971 W113 SL's but am always on the lookout for exceptional R107's.  With W113 values on the rise, some collectors are starting to look at these 3rd generation SL's as the next in line.   As with most Mercedes, low mile examples with good colors will always find themselves at the top. Click here for a slideshow of all of the enlarged images. About the Reserve Price:   This car is being sold with a reserve that should be easy to meet.  Out of fairness to all bidders I won't reveal it, just bid at the level you are comfortable with.  This auction ends Monday, 8-23-10 at at 12 Noon Pacific Time , 2 PM Central , 3 PM Eastern, 7 PM GMT. About Payment: I will contact the winning bidder via email within 3 hours of auction completion.  I would like a $500 deposit (paypal, money order or bank check) within 2 days.  Balance is due (bank check or bank wire transfer only) within 7 calendar days of auction end. The car will be securely garaged until pickup. About this auction: This auction process is a legally binding contract into which you enter when you click "confirm" on your bid.   Please have finances in order before you decide to bid and please ask all questions before you decide to bid.   Basically, please only bid if you are ready to purchase this car.  Car is sold as-is with no warranties express or implied.  Any disputes regarding the sale of this vehicle shall be resolved through binding arbitration exclusively in Multnomah County, Oregon under applicable state laws.  By bidding you agree to these terms. About me: Please check my feedback, I take customer satisfaction very seriously and am a licensed, bonded and insured dealer in the State of Oregon.  I own this car outright and the pictures were taken last week.  You and/or your representative are welcome and encouraged to inspect the car in person before the close of auction. I can be reached at 503-891-7702 between the hours of 9-5.  Previously sold inventory is available to view at www.cascadiaclassic.com Post Auction details: The transport cost is the responsiblity of the winning bidder, although I can certainly help with logistics.  I've had good experiences with the following: www.intercitylines.com www.exoticcartransport.com www.sundayautotransport.com Overseas bidders may contact any of these international shippers for a quote: Schumacher Cargo Horizon Auto Services California Shipping Or check out www.movecars.com for a unbiased market guide to transporters and tips on moving cars. Thanks for looking! On Aug-19-10 at 00:34:54 PDT, seller added the following information:The VIN number and corresponding History Report that Ebay has generated for this car is wrong. The correct VIN is 10704412062870