Vehicle Description
Price reduced for immediate sale!
The Mercedes 450SL was built between 1973 and 1980. As the final year of production, very few were brought to the US. Collectors view the 1980 as the most desirable version. Due to its limited production and end of model status, car guides refelct a 30-35% difference in value between the 1980 version and earlier model years. The 4.5 liter engine gave the car outstanding performance for its time, with a 135mph top speed.
Please read and look at this listing closely, as we believe this collectible Mercedes 450SL is the most unique SL offering on Ebay this week. Very rare color, with extensive documentation history--including the original window sticker!
This car is from our most trusted California source, from an esteemed estate. Low highway miles, pristine rust free body with superb original interior. Car can be shown or driven daily. Please note, our price is aggressive---on the low end of NADA guidelines for comparable vehicles. Find another 450SL this clean and well documented.
Cosmetic Impressions
The Mercedes 450SL is one of the most revered personal luxury coupes ever built. It's lines are timeless. While it may be true that a fair number of these cars still exist, few can equal this rare / unique color combination, and its extensive service history. We were absolutely floored by the cars awesome cosmetic presentation.
Remember, this car is 35 years old. A classic and collectible by any measure. To find one in such pristine condition, unmolested and accident free is a treasure. Ultra low mile examples certainly make for good conversation--but invariably are headaches in waiting. 35+ year old cars that have been stored most of their lives are problematic to say the least. Seals, gaskets, trim are all going to be in need of replacement. Also, few have such complete service records. Keep in mind, this car was only driven an average of 3600 miles per year. In our opinion, the perfect amount of miles to preserve the car mechanically and provide the near flawless cosmetic presentation we observed.
Specifically, the interior shows no signs of abuse anywhere. Wood trim and leather look incredible. No broken pieces or worn out surfaces anywhere. The exterior is even more remarkable. No significant door dings or scratches to betray the impression that this is a newer car. Both the classic hard top and soft convertible tops are in excellent condition. Very little to criticize or find fault with cosmetically. A+
Mechanical Presentation and Driving Impressions
While we have driven the larger engined 560SL on occasion, this was our first experience with the legendary, earlier 450SL. The car is every bit the player, feeling as solid and well built as any current Mercedes. In some respects--even better. This is a car that feels substantial without being overweight and ponderous. It is agile and confidence inspiring--unlike many other cars from its era.
We found the acceleration and braking were quite solid during our test drive period. No rattles or unwelcome noises. Please note we have well over $30,000 in service receipts for this car, along with the original window sticker. This includes major refresh of engine, transmission and brakes.
The car's extensive service history and documentation left us certain that no expense was spared in the past to keep this lovely SL in top form. Grade A.
Market Report and Valuation
The follownig valuation was taken from June 2015 NADA Classic car guide. Please note that condition appraisals are subjective. However in our opinion, this Benz qualifies for the high end of the value range. Our pricing is dramatically below the projected price for comparable vehicles, with similar miles, condition and documentation. Making it one of the best values this week on Ebay.
Nada classic guide June 2015
Low retail Average Retail High Retail
$13,800 $25,700 $40,800
Below is an explanation of the condition guidelines. It is clear from the description that our SL refelcts the higher end range, which accurately details the conditon of our particular car.
Low Retail Value
This vehicle would be in mechanically functional condition, needing only minor reconditioning. The exterior paint, trim and interior would show normal wear, needing only minor reconditioning. May also be a deteriorated restoration or a very poor amateur restoration. Most usable ‘as-is’. This value does not represent a ‘parts car’.
Note: Some of the vehicles in this publication could be considered ‘Daily Drivers’ and are not valued as a classic vehicle. When determining a value for a daily driver, it is recommended that the subscriber use the low retail value.
Average Retail Value
This vehicle would be in good condition overall. It could be an older restoration or a well-maintained original vehicle. Completely operable. The exterior paint, trim, and mechanics are presentable and serviceable inside and out. A ‘20-footer’.
High Retail Value
This vehicle would be in excellent condition overall. It could be a completely restored or an extremely well-maintained original vehicle showing very minimal wear. The exterior paint, trim, and mechanics are not in need of reconditioning. The interior would be in excellent condition.
Note: This value does not represent a ‘100 Point’ or ‘# 1’ vehicle *.
