Mercedes-Benz - 450 SLC - 1973

Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC (1973) – V8 Grand Tourer

GENERAL
Introduced in late 1971, six months after the R107 SL Convertible on which it was based, the Mercedes-Benz SLC (C107) featured a longer body and wheelbase than its sports model sibling, making it a genuine four-seater Grand Tourer. This particular example is a genuine, solid, and honest 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC classic coupé that was imported to the Netherlands from the dry state of California, where it was kept by its last US owner for over a decade. Powered by the robust 4.5-liter M117 V8 engine, this Euro-market specification model originally left the factory producing 225 horsepower and 378 Nm of torque, paired with a reliable three-speed automatic transmission. As values for standard SL convertibles have soared, the more spacious and distinctively styled SLC has firmly come into its own on the collector market. Having already undergone partial restoration and extensive mechanical attention, this dry-state vehicle is an ideal candidate to enjoy as-is or to elevate to a premium, investment-grade standard.

BODYWORK & PAINT
The exterior is finished in Antelope Beige metallic, which is an older repaint over the original factory solid Harvest Beige. The original color is still visible inside the engine bay and underneath the chassis. While the car is extremely solid and would benefit from being painted again to look its absolute best, the sills and floors all appear to be in good order and unblighted by the corrosion typical of European examples. The original chrome and trim remain in sound condition. The car sits on classic steel wheels with body-colored trims wrapped in whitewall Michelin tires, and it features a unique combination of US-style quad Federal headlights paired with sleeker European-specification bumpers.

TECHNICAL
Under the hood sits the powerful 4.5-liter V8 engine, which is coupled with an automatic transmission. The car has recently benefitted from a substantial amount of mechanical work to ensure its health. This maintenance includes a new fuel pump, new filters, and new spark plugs, alongside a thoroughly cleaned fuel tank and fuel lines with newly installed fuel pipes. With its solid body and refreshed fueling system, the mechanical setup is already smart and sound, requiring only a final routine mechanical check-over to be completely sorted for regular, reliable road use.

INTERIOR
The cabin presents in superb condition, featuring highly durable beige MB-Tex leather-style upholstery. The dashboard, carpets, door cards, and headliner are all excellent, with only very minor rubbing noted on the driver’s side seat bolster. The interior is well-equipped for its era, boasting a factory electric sunroof, four electric windows, and a vintage Kenwood radio-cassette player. The rear head restraints are included, and the luggage area is equally well-presented, coming complete with a factory tool roll and warning triangle.

DOCUMENTS
The history file for this classic coupé includes the original owners' and instruction manual, alongside the paperwork associated with its import from California to the Netherlands and its partial restoration journey.

COLLECTION
This Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC is located in the Netherlands. Viewing and collection can be arranged by appointment, allowing the buyer to inspect its highly preserved, dry-state structure firsthand.

OTHER INFORMATION
With its dry-state history and superbly solid body, this V8-powered SLC is brimming with potential. It represents a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiast or investor looking for a complete, sound, and usable classic that can be driven immediately or easily raised to a premium level with a little time and fresh paint.