1979 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

450SL Convertible

8 - Cyl.

Automatic

10704412056881

Gasoline

The Mercedes-Benz 450 SL was not the performance icon found in the '58-'63 300SLs, nor was it as delicate and beautiful as the Pagoda roofed W113 SL. The '72-'89 W107 SL became the definitive luxury convertible over its lifetime, a solid-as-a-brick template for quality at a time when the American automobile industry plunged into a decline that was exemplified by numerous models that were unreliable, rust-prone pieces of junk. It immersed it's driver not in the Corinthian leather and imitation wood splendor of Detroit's attempts at opulence, but in an environment of unmatched build quality and materials that were matter-of-fact in the autos from Stuttgart, West Germany. It was the perfect car for wives of S-Class and 911 driving professionals. Which is exactly what this car is. Purchased new as a 50th birthday gift to herself, this SL was the pampered dry weather car of a surgeon's wife. This car was delivered with optional Pebble Red leather seats (1979 was the last year for Pebble Red (3005 upholstery code). Her success in charitable endeavors after a career in nursing gave her the ability to buy the car herself and ensure that it was maintained by the book. It was never driven in snow or bad weather, except for being caught in an unexpected summer sprinkle. She washed it weekly, treated the leather regularly, and didn't allow her husband (who unlike her, was not a "car person") to drive it; although after her death he kept the car for summer cruises to clinics he worked at an hour from home. How do I know this? The car was purchased by my mom. Why is it for sale? When my daughter was 5, she asked grandma "can I have your car when you're done with it?". Now that she's 19, she's lost her interest in it, and rather than storing it as an heirloom decided that she'd like to find it a good home and put the proceeds toward her college education. Everything works on this car, and it is unique being an unmodified car. No chrome fender arches (which were mounted by drilling rust-prone screw holes), no useless "rear seat" accessory, chrome wheels, or interior hacked up to add stereo equipment. There are mats over the original mats and cargo area carpeting, the original Becker cassette radio plays through the original dash speakers and the car is fitted with a newer set of the correct Michelin tires and MB battery. The car was inspected, appraised, and insured at $20,800. NADA Classic Cars lists High Retail price for this model as $27,600 and Average as $19,300. This car is in far above average condition. The reserve is substantially less than the above numbers. Unlike many W107 SLs, this car has no wrinkles or deterioration in the door panel vinyl, and no cracks or degradation of the upper dashboard. A couple of strips of door weatherstripping could be replaced, although the car has no wind or water leaks. The hardtop has a rolling storage stand. The car is also fitted with an original MB factory windblocker. The air conditioning system has been properly updated with a full HFC-134a conversion. It was fitted with a new (original MB) under hood insulation pad when the a/c was done. The seats are not terrible, but since my dad was not a car guy, he didn't continue their upkeep, so they're the worst part of the car. His philosophy was that cows don't take baths, so why clean leather? However there are no cracks, splits, or unstitched seams. The driver's side padding (German made original rubber and horsehair pads are readily obtainable) needs replacing and the reconditioning of the leather is an uncomplicated job. The winning bidder will pay a deposit of $1000 within 24 hours, with full payment to be made by wire transfer within 3 days. If the car needs to be shipped I will coordinate with your shipper to ensure a timely and trouble-free pick up. I had the car shipped to me by Intercity Lines, who I highly recommend. Connecticut does not issue titles for cars built before 1981. The buyer will be given a CT DOT H-31 Bill of Sale. Bids from buyers without sufficient feedback or with policy violations will be cancelled. Please remember you are bidding to purchase this car, not for right of first refusal, to negotiate, or to be a test pilot. This is taken seriously and a winning bidder that does not follow through will be aggressively pursued through ebay as well as legal action. I have never had a problem as a buyer or seller and am eager to complete a smooth transaction where positive feedback is left for all parties. I reserve the right to end the auction early as the car is available for sale locally. Thanks for your interest in finding this great car an appreciative new home. On Feb-05-12 at 10:06:31 PST, seller added the following information: I am unable to remove the reserve at this point, but any bid will surpass the reserve -- so this is a no reserve auction.