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1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

Lot 182 | The Academy of Art University Collection Saturday, 15 February 2025

Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
| Offered Without Reserve
Offered Without Reserve

1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

Lot 182 | The Academy of Art University Collection Saturday, 15 February 2025

Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000
| Offered Without Reserve
Offered Without Reserve
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Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL

The Academy of Art University Collection

  • Finished in Astral Silver over an optional Black leather
  • Powered by the sturdy 4.5-liter V8 mated to a three-speed automatic transmission
  • A well-optioned example showcasing numerous period-correct accessories
  • Believed to have been located in the San Francisco Bay Area from new

Chassis No. 107.044.12.051275

In spring 1971, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 350 SL, replacing the beloved 280 SL “Pagoda.” The new model was technically distinct from its predecessor while sharing some components with other Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including the front and rear suspension from the "Stroke Eight" series and the V8 engine from the 280 SE 3.5. It maintained the two-seater configuration, retractable roadster hood, and removable hardtop, but marked a shift towards a more comfortable, luxury-focused sports car. With internal code R107, the 350 SL featured innovative safety features, including new deflector profiles at the A-pillars for better visibility, drainage rails to keep windows clean, and larger ribbed taillights.

Soon after production began, the model range was expanded with the addition of a 4.5-liter M117 V8 to create the 450 SL. Preferring larger V8s, the 350 SL was quickly dropped in the U.S.-market in favor of the 450 SL with its 4.5-liter mill. Hailing from the end of the R107 series, this 1979 450 SL was sold new in San Francisco, California, as noted on its original owner's Data Plate. Furthermore, it was finished in classic Astral Silver (735) with the color-keyed removable hardtop over the optional Black leather (231) interior.

Remaining in largely original condition, the car showcases numerous period-correct accessories that include 14-inch Centra aluminum alloy wheels, chrome fender trim, and Mercedes star fog light covers on the exterior. On the inside, it features a wood grain horn pad, an American Wireless car phone, and an updated Pioneer head unit. Opening the hood reveals a highly original engine compartment, with countless original pieces remaining as they were when the car left Sindelfingen. As presented with just over 121,000 miles, this well-preserved 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL offers a compelling entry into the world of classic Mercedes with its timeless styling and usability due to Mercedes' continuous commitment to being “engineered like no other car in the world.”

Addendum

Due to California emissions laws, please note that this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.

David Swig
Senior Car Specialist