• Seller: Ronald L alich
• Location: Nanoose Bay, British Columbia, Canada
• Mileage: 173,000 kilometers Shown
• Chassis #: WDB10704412011249
• Title Status: Clean

UPDATE – The seller would like to clarify that the included spare engine is from a 1972 350SL, which is actually a 4.5 liter V8. This engine was found just in the ’72 model and are quite hard to find. It could either be installed in this car for an immediate increase in performance or sold to someone restoring their ’72 350SL. Either way, it’s a huge bonus to have included in the deal!

Enthusiasts seeking a wind-in-the-hair motoring experience face a wide selection of domestic Convertibles they could park in their garage. Many feature a V8 under the hood that offers respectable performance, but why run with the crowd when there’s an opportunity to stand out from it? That is the opportunity provided by this 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450sl Convertible. It is a rock-solid vehicle that presents a range of options for potential buyers to consider. The winning bidder could perform a total restoration, although its presentation is good enough that they could return it to active service as a survivor. The owner has spent a considerable sum on its existing drivetrain, but the inclusion of a freshly rebuilt spare V8 that has covered no miles might prove irresistible. The owner feels it deserves a new home with someone who can complete what he has started. Therefore, he has listed the 450sl with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

Mercedes introduced the 450sl to its model range in 1973, with our feature car hailing from the first production year. Its original owner ordered it in Astral Silver Metallic, and that color still graces its laser-straight panels. The owner admits it could benefit from a cosmetic refresh, but the shine and presentation are good enough for the winning bidder to return it to active service as a survivor-grade classic. Rust is not an issue because this “sl” is rock-solid. The Black soft-top is in excellent condition, with only one small and repairable tear near the bottom. The deal includes a desirable factory hardtop offering all-weather protection. The car’s appearance is improved by the Euro-spec chrome bumpers that are elegant and in beautiful condition. The remaining trim looks spotless, and there are no glass issues.

The 450 derives its model designation from the 4.5-liter V8 occupying its engine bay. It produces 190hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque that feeds to the wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. This Mercedes could show a clean pair of heels to a ’73 Mustang Convertible with a 351-2V under the hood, which is impressive considering it gives away 1.3-liters in engine capacity. The owner recently treated this V8 to a new water pump, timing chain, and valve cover gaskets. They completed a full brake rebuild, fitting a new fuel pump assembly, shocks, and other components as required. They include a significant collection of additional parts, the most desirable being a complete 4.5-liter V8 of 1972 vintage. This motor has covered zero miles since a total professional rebuild, with the owner holding documentation and invoices to confirm the work. This spare motor might not be the numbers-matching V8 but will give this car an additional 40 hp!

The Mercedes features an interior trimmed in Saffron and Bamboo MB-Tex. The owner describes it as 90% restored, and it appears to need little beyond reassembly. The upholstered surfaces are excellent, while the dash and pad show no evidence of physical or UV damage. There is no visible wheel wear, broken or crumbling plastic, or additions beyond a radio/cassette player. The car features air conditioning, but the lack of recent activity may mean it is inoperative. The power windows will add to the luxury feel of this classic.

The late Janis Joplin lamented how she wanted someone to buy her a Mercedes-Benz. She justified her desire because her friends drove Porsches, which was ironic considering she also drove a Porsche. If you feel as she did, this 1973 450sl offers the chance to transform a dream into reality and hit the road in a drop-top that will stand out from others wherever it goes. The idea of a cosmetic refresh is tempting, but returning it to active service in its current form would be the ideal way to occupy the upcoming winter months. That would ensure it is ready to go when the sun shines brightly again. The promise of relaxed summer touring makes it worth a closer look and a possible bid.

Bid On This Auction

• History (3 bids)