How could an automobile remain in production for 17 model years with no significant changes? We’re traveling back in time with a rather compelling car model, so fasten your seatbelts.
Source: Wallpaper Flare
Since 1954, Mercedes-Benz has produced the SL class or SL roadster in various forms. The third generation, which started manufacturing in April 1971 and ended in August 1989, is represented by this 1980 450 SL. Surprisingly, its appearance hasn’t altered much over the years, a commemoration of the car’s great design. It seems years ahead of other early 1970s designs, but not too out of place when compared to late 1980s automobiles. The SL manages to seem robust despite its small size. It is straight and flat without seeming angular, and it has a sturdy appearance.
A well-organized interior retains the concept of stability. The chairs are comfy, and the entire material quality is excellent. The quality of the fit and finish is above average for the period. The vision is excellent, and unlike other roadsters, you don’t feel dangerously little in comparison to larger vehicles, and even though the huge steering wheel resembles that of a sailboat, the ride is not boat-like. It doesn’t heave over bumps or roll around bends; the handling is robust, but it’s been smoothed over, much like the style.
The SL is intended to be a grand tourer, and that’s not just a euphemism for a sloppy sports car; it finds a balance between comfort and performance rather than sacrificing one for the other.
This stunning model can also be found on our website.
Source: Mecum
The Mercedes-Benz SL moniker has always connoted a high degree of automotive elegance and flair, and each new version appears to both define and be defined by its age. When the R107 model SL was introduced in 1971 as a successor for the popular 230/250/280SL W113 series, this was the situation. The family of cars was produced until 1989, with only minor alterations, a remarkable manufacturing history for a premium convertible.
Mercedes introduced a V-8 engine in the convertible range with the R107, which was required given the new SL’s 3400-pound weight. The styling was conservative and evocative of the pagoda top automobiles, and while having almost identical proportions, the R107 seemed to be considerably bigger.
Despite having a 4.5-liter V-8 under the hood, the first-year 1972 vehicles were called 350SL to match the European model nomenclature. The overhead cam, fuel-injected V-8 engine produced 230 horsepower. There was no option for a manual gearbox, thus it was mated with a three-speed automatic. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, and the suspension was completely independent.
In 1972, the car’s name was also changed, and the model designation was changed to 450SL. Another change was the way horsepower was measured, with the new SAE net putting the 450SL’s output at 190 hp. Next to federal standards, the 450SL received big front and rear safety bumpers the following year. With the inclusion of a catalytic converter in 1975, emissions regulations lowered output to 180 horsepower.
Source: Wallpaper Abyss
Author: Josh Bryan
The SL was equipped with a continuous fuel injection system and transistorized ignition in 1976. Mercedes added automatic temperature control and 14-inch aluminum wheels as standard equipment two years later, in 1978. In 1979, the automobiles remained unmodified, and in 1980, the fuel injection system was improved, reducing output from 180 to 160 horsepower.
The 450SL model was discontinued in 1980, and its successor, the 380SL, would carry the torch into the 1980s. The 450SL, on the other hand, sold about 6,000 units each year until it was discontinued. They are simple to find nowadays, because of their well-deserved reputation and make for extremely comfortable top-down cruisers.
The 450 SL is a complete and capable roadster that, despite its age, delivers gratifying performance. Yes, by today’s standards, the SL seems unimpressive and pricey, but keep in mind that this vehicle featured fuel injection and four-wheel disc brakes when it was released in 1972. The SL has aged elegantly, cementing a design that was destined to become iconic, if not eternal.
Do you have a 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL or any other vintage car you want to sell? contact us!
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