Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Estimate
£12, 000 - £15, 000
Lot details
Registration No: YNF 836S
Chassis No: the details below
MOT: June 2025
Equivalent of c. 124, 000 miles on the odometer
Recent fuel injection system overhaul and paintwork restoration in 2022
Rated as ‘excellent’ condition throughout by the vendor
Imported from the car friendly climate of South Africa in 2024
The Mercedes R107 retains a reassuring air of solidity, in an attempt to avoid falling foul of threatened American safety legislation. Allied to this was sure-footed handling courtesy of all-around independent coil-sprung suspension, power-assisted steering, and disc brakes. Always more of a 'grand tourer' than an out-and-out sports car, the vast majority of R107s were fitted with automatic transmission. Launched in September 1974, the Eurocentric 280SL was less powerful than its V8 brethren. Powered by a 4520cc SOHC V8 engine, the 450SL model was quoted as developing some 225bhp and 278lbft of torque. A strong 120mph-plus performer, it remained in production until 1980.
Manufactured in 1978, the 450SL offered was supplied new to the car friendly climate of South Africa. Finished in Silver metallic paintwork with complementary Black leather interior upholstery and a Black hood, the Mercedes is also accompanied by a body-coloured hard-top and is a factory air-conditioning example. Residing in South Africa for the vast majority of its life, the SL arrived on British shores in early 2024, but not before benefitting from a paint and bodywork refresh and fuel injection system refresh in 2022, as well as further benefitting from a new stainless-steel exhaust.
UK-registered since arrival as ‘YNF 836S’, it is offered now with the equivalent of c. 124, 000 miles on the odometer. Boasting a no advisory MOT until June 2025, the vendor rates the R107 as ‘excellent’ throughout (in regards to bodywork, paintwork, interior trim, engine, gearbox, and electrical equipment). Accompanied to sale by the original stamped service book documenting service history during the Mercedes time in South Africa as well as the current V5C document.
