Vehicle Description
As the longest-running passenger car in Mercedes-Benz history, the
R107 series of SL-roadsters earned its place as an icon of the 70s
and 80s, blending performance, safety, and quality in an impeccably
styled two-seat roadster. Much like the R113 that preceded it, the
R107 was a sports car for continental touring that you could use in
all conditions. It was beautifully built, with an optional
removable hardtop, effective climate control, and superb build
quality that shrugged off the notion that sports cars needed to be
finicky and rough around the edges. The R107 SL-series was a
tremendous success, and Mercedes continually evolved it with
increasingly powerful six and eight-cylinder engines, refined
dynamics, and more sophisticated safety and luxury features.
Enduring as Mercedes' flagship sports car for seventeen years, the
R107 looked as crisp and sophisticated in 1989 as it did in
1972.
This 1979 450 SL is an appealing, well-maintained example showing
just over 33,000 miles from new. Finished in its original shade of
Midnight Blue (code 904) over Bamboo leather upholstery (code 204),
it looks as elegant today as it was when sold new by Stahl Motor
Company of Monterey, California. Records show returned to the
selling dealer regularly for maintenance through the years. It is
factory-equipped with Bosch fog lamps, automatic climate control,
leather upholstery, Bundt wheels, two tops, and a Becker Europa
stereo. As offered, it is in excellent condition, with glossy
midnight blue paint, crisp, straight panels, and finely preserved
trim. Some minor paint imperfections indicate a partial respray,
however, the car presents very well for touring enjoyment. Lights
and lenses are all in excellent condition, and the iconic Bundt
alloy wheels wear excellent 205/70-14 radials.
Opening the signature bank-vault doors reveals original
Bamboo-colored leather in fine order, some slight age-appropriate
stretching and creasing evident. The dash and fascia are excellent,
the original Becker remains in place, and the wood trim is free of
cracks and fading. Carpets are tidy throughout the cabin, and the
original plastic sill trims and other details remain in excellent
order. Under the bonnet, the 4.5-liter V8 engine is tidy and
well-detailed, with many original labels and markings intact. The
original vin-matched warranty booklet, data card, and owner's
manuals are included, along with a factory first aid kit and tool
roll.
In terms of style and purpose, the Mercedes-Benz R107 remains a
timeless GT car, offering the ideal balance of looks, performance,
and luxury. This appealing 450 SL with undoubtedly please its next
enthusiastic owner and is a fine example of this much-appreciated
breed.
Offers welcome and trades considered
