It’s easy to take the classic Mercedes-Benz R107 for granted. After all, they made a ton of them, and you don’t have to look too hard to find one for sale pretty much anywhere. Even zip codes that aren’t typically associated with European makes and models usually have a tired example or two kicking around. This car is far from tired and actually looks quite nice despite being stamped as a non-op in the California registry database. Fortunately, the Mercedes is still started and driven weekly, so don’t let its current registration status deter you. Find the Mercedes here on eBay with bids to $8,885 and no reserve.
I thought this car was that delightful shade of primrose at first, given how lustrous it still is. But in reading the description, it’s actually ivory in color which speaks to the strength of the cosmetics. The seller is correct to point out that for California buyers, this is a pretty attractive car to buy as it doesn’t need to go through the litany of arduous smog testing that newer cars do. The Mercedes has clearly been in California for a while as it still wears its old-school blue license plates, and the seller confirms it has been garaged most of its life which is a major reason why the cosmetics are still so strong. Mileage sits at just under 87,000.
Mercedes interiors are typically quite durable, but you can still tell when one has been looked after. A convertible is naturally prone to deterioration after years of top-down sun exposure, but this 450SL hasn’t suffered this fate. The seats are in beautiful condition and the dashboard is amazingly crack-free. The convertible top headliner is said to be in excellent condition as is the top itself. There are no issues with the carpets or floormats and the seller also confirms that the gauges, Becker radio, and all illumination still works as it should.
The engine bay presents as well as the rest of the car and the V8 is said to be a strong runner with no issues. The seller also confirms the transmission shifts as it should with no rough gear changes. The listing mentions that it will come with service records but there are no details on what work has been done or when it last visited a specialist garage. The seller certainly inspires confidence regarding how well the car presents, and a simple phone call can be made to establish a clearer sense of whether the necessary fluid changes have been performed and if any common wear items have been swapped out. This looks like a great price at the moment for a surprisingly nice R107.
I agree it seems like there is a R107 on every corner. I would say the majority of them are one step from a salvage yard. These are great cars but they require continuous maintenance in order for them to stay nice. Even this one as pristine and original as it is is going to take at least a couple grand. 75 was the last year for Bosch D-jetronic. It’s a good system but it’s somewhat finicky being the first analog EFI system. There is no self healing function we have grown accustomed to with modern EFI. I don’t think that’s as much the case here because this car looks to have never been driven in bad weather. I believe the color might actually be maple yellow as it looks exactly like my 73 did unless the camera is playing with the hue. Be sure to pay for a good PPI before handing over the money. Even though this looks to be a great example expenses can spiral quickly with these.
I have a friend who worked at an MB dealer years ago. He told me the cost to repair these cars is insane and you can’t buy parts at Auto Zone. This is why nearly 98 percent of all Benzes on the road are leased. I have driven several 450 SLs. Horrible ride and noisy. My 73 Corvette rides better.
Well George, the suspension must have been worn out or broken if it rode worse than your Corvette.
A lot of people who drive the large Benz S classes of this generation, especially the 450’s say they ride bad. They are looking for the American pillow ride like a continental or caddie. These cars are not like that. The 450, in my opinion, is the best old Benz engine. Very fast and the suspension is designed to run 100+mph all day in comfort, BUT, in control. No wallowing around.
I cant remember what magazine it was, but 4 large lads took a 450sel, 6.9 and did a 4 corners run.
They all commented on the suspension, but also said none of the american cars would do endless hours of 130+ mph across the High desert, making it feel like they were going 50mph. Maintenance is not a big deal if you have the smarts, and parts are available from lots of sources, you never really have to go to the Steeler.
I miss my 450se every day, had a 560sl, 560sel, 380sel and now… a GLK350… but one day, I’ll have another 450.
I had a 1975 MB 450SL much like this one. I sold mine with 46,000 actual miles after owning it for 7 years. It was in the shop more than it was on the road. There was always something that needed repair and was happy to sell it. Don’t get me wrong, it was very comfortable to drive, had good acceleration, but terrible MPG. Mine was white over red interior and looked very classy.
yeah at 47000 miles it shouldn’t have been in the shop even once, let alone several times. Beautiful cars but a Honda puts it to shame as far as reliability goes.
Hart to Hart
I had a beautiful ’76 450 SLC that has soured me to all German cars due to maintenance and upkeep costs.
My Dad had a ‘72 450 SLC. Red with black interior and convertible with a hard top. It was his “baby” and never saw a raindrop. He let me (16 year old) drive it around. You could see my smile a mile away. I miss that car and especially my Dad. Thank you Jeff for triggering a great memory.
I drove by a ‘72 450 SL years ago that had a for sale sign on it. Went back to look at it, even though I “knew” I couldn’t afford it. (Looking is free). Nice looking car. Same color combo as this one. I was shocked at the low price! Popped the hood and dropped my jar – 200 Ford 6.
I bought it, drove it, loved it. Gutless wonder, but I always enjoyed cruising past adoring onlookers, who had no idea what was under the hood.
beautiful interior on this car ….
Love these cars, started the shop working on 190SL’s, then everything after. Have to know what you are doing on these and it’s no big deal to maintain, after M-Benz bought Chrysler they cut corners and haven’t been the same since, Today I tell a customer to lease only, same with BMW and Audi , add Jags to that list, too bad.
Pre-smog? Whatch u talkin about Willis?