1979 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Convertible

4.5L V8

Automatic

107 044 12 055369

Clear

Gasoline

Up for sale is a 1979 Mercedes 450SL project car. This car belongs to my father in law and is currently in storage at his house. The car was purchased in 2005. It was driven as a fun/weekend car up until the motor stopped in late May of this year. At that time the car was trailered to my shop where I diagnosed the engine problem. The timing chain jumped on the driver side cylinder head. After some research it appears Mercedes issued updated timing chain guides for the 4.5 motor , I do not believe this motor had that update. The valves on the driver side head are bent and the pistons have very small knicks. I would not be afraid to put another head on this motor and run it. The motor is currently out of the car, the cylinder heads have been removed. All parts will be included with the car. The transmission is still in the car. It was shifting perfect at the time the motor quit. Car did leak some oil, I believe the rear main on the motor was most of the leak. Interior of the car is all in tact , as can be seen the front seats have covers as they do show some wear. The top is very new and in excellent shape. The car just had a new fuel pump, water pump , and tires put on before the motor quit. The front end was gone through prior to purchase in 2005. This car drove excellent prior to the engine trouble. The body is in excellent shape for a car this age. No visible rust or corrosion inside and out. Car has some scratches and chips, it would appear the car was repainted at some point. Color is spot on for Mercedes. Car was kept in a garage since purchase, rarely driven in the winter. This car would be great for someone looking for a project or for a parts car for another restoration. Car will have to be trailerd or towed. On Aug-12-12 at 16:08:10 PDT, seller added the following information:Couple additions. The car will also include a black hardtop. The top was rarely used and stored inside. The mileage should be treated as inaccurate as the odometer was malfunctioning. The car was not driven more than 2-3k per year for the 7 years of ownership.