Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 107.044.12.033635
In the spring of 1971, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 350 SL as the
successor to the beloved 280 SL "Pagoda." Technically distinct yet
sharing some components with other models, the 350 SL borrowed its
front and rear suspension from the "Stroke Eight" series and its V8
engine from the 280 SE 3.5. It retained the classic two-seater
layout, retractable roadster top, and removable hardtop but shifted
towards a more comfort-oriented, luxury sports car. Internally
coded R107, it featured innovative safety updates, including new
deflector profiles at the A-pillars for improved visibility,
drainage rails to keep windows clear, and larger, ribbed
taillights. Shortly after production began, Mercedes expanded the
range with the 4.5-liter M117 V8, creating the 450 SL.
Finished in Anthracite Grey Metallic (172), this 450 SL was
additionally ordered with the optional Black Leather (201)
interior. The removable, color-matched hard top and Black folding
soft top allow this car to be easily transformed from a sporting,
open-air roadster to a closed, all-weather touring coupe with
relative ease. As expected from a Mercedes-Benz, this car is
complete with an extensive list of features, including air
conditioning, cruise control, power windows, light alloy "Bundt"
wheels, heat-insulating glass, central locking, and a power radio
antenna.
Delivered new on 26 August 1976 through Gengras Motor Cars of
Hartford, Connecticut, it has remained in the Northeast ever since,
with a limited number of preservation-minded owners, as documented
by its owner's manuals, window sticker, and a collection of service
records and registration cards dating back to the 1980s. As a
result, the car has only covered just over 57,000 miles at the time
of cataloging and remains in largely original condition. Since the
car has left the factory nearly 50 years ago, minor upgrades have
been made, which include European-market Bosch headlights, a newer
Sony radio with additional speakers, new leather seat covers, and a
sporting front apron from a 560 SL. As presented, this splendid 450
SL offers a compelling entry into the world of classic Mercedes,
with its timeless styling and usability, thanks to Mercedes'
continuous commitment to being "engineered like no other car in the
world."
