Mercedes Benz 450SL Coupe

1980 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Description

I have enjoyed this car for over three years. Drove it today. It drives perfectly and has never given me any trouble. I bought this from an engineer who used it for parades. I will miss this car very much. I am buying a farm and it is time to let this head-turner convertible go to a new owner. Every owner (I am the 3rd-first two were engineers) has taken meticulous care of this car and used original parts. The only thing changed is the radio. It has an amazing CD player and radio from Pioneer with two speakers in the back. Looks great in the dash and has amazing sound.The car and hard top have been stored indoors always. Has the original wool rugs in car and trunk. I recently bought the Blue Diamond paint repair kit -decided to leave it as is and let the new buyer "fix" the minor paint imperfections shown in the photos. I have a nice fabric cover to keep it dust free.

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 reflect 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.

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 excellent combination of excellent maintenance by a mechanical engineer for most of its life, new Michelin tires, new battery and new brakes by Omaha Mercedes dealership and amazing appearance and body condition. The air conditioner works (very rare) and its original manuals are in the original holder. We have the original convertible top wrench and will include three great books on the car, nice key chains and all records. The soft top is new within the last three years-never used except to stretch it once a year and inspect-it is navy blue.

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. Both the classic hard top and soft convertible tops are in excellent condition. Very little to criticize or find fault with cosmetically. A+

ALERT--PRICE REDUCED BELOW NADA AVERAGE RETAIL TO SELL IMMEDIATELY. INCREDIBLE VALUE! Low reserve.

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.

Market Report and Valuation

The following 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.

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 reflects the average to higher end range, which accurately details the condition 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 doesnotrepresent 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.
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.

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