Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC

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First registered in 1979 this smart left-hand drive European spec 450SLC was supplied new to Sweden and has remained there until recently, being brought to the UK by its owner (who flits between both countries) before the next Scandinavian winter sets in.

Prior to our vendor purchasing the car in 2012 it had been in storage for seven years. A retired engineer, he treated it to a thorough overhaul using OE parts including complete replacement of the fuel delivery and filter system. Being post-1977, it benefits from the more reliable Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection with electronic ignition (CIS) module. All belts and hoses were replaced along with all fluids, filters and important automatic gearbox ATF strainer.

A new alternator and battery have also been fitted and the rear silencer replaced as have the front subframe support bushes and bolts with OE items. The underside has been protected with Dinitrol rust protector, although the car has not been used during the winter months at all.

Our vendor also chose to carry out some sensible upgrades such as improving the cold air intake as found on the later 420SL and also fitment of hot air exit louvres on the bonnet. Standard ‘Mexican hat’ alloy wheels have been replaced with AMG-style 7Jx16 inch wheels with more appropriate 225/55/16 tyres giving the car a more purposeful look and greater traction. The suspension and steering geometry have also been adjusted to keep the settings correct with the new wheels.

Finished in light blue metallic with blue velour seats, the car also has walnut trim, original radio cassette player, a heated driver’s seat, sunroof, electric windows, passenger mirror and cruise control. The history file includes Swedish reg docs, Swedish MOTs and a file of invoices for parts.

With R107 SL prices climbing rapidly, the SLC coupe has followed suit with top examples now fetching £30k+ on the continent. This lovely example looks very appealing given its condition and lowish mileage of 149,100km (92k miles). The car has a NOVA declaration and MOT until November 2019 so registration with DVLA’s V55 form, £55 registration fee and six months tax is all it needs to be legal on UK roads. Ideal for summer jaunts to that place in Brittany you’ve been promising yourself, these cars are built to last and just look ever more cool with every year that passes.