1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL (R107)
The Mercedes-Benz R107 is one of the most successful and enduring sports cars ever built by Mercedes-Benz. Produced from 1971 to 1989, it enjoyed an 18-year production run, making it one of the longest-lived Mercedes model series in history. More than 237,000 R107 SLs were built worldwide, with around two-thirds exported to North America.
This example is a 1980 450 SL, powered by Mercedes-Benz’s smooth and durable 4.5-litre V8 engine. The 450 SL was produced between 1971 and 1980, with a total of 66,298 examples built. In its final production year, 5,583 were manufactured.
Key specifications:
* Engine: 4,520cc V8
* Power: up to 225–230 bhp in European specification
* Transmission: 3-speed automatic
* Top speed: approximately 130 mph
* 0–60 mph: around 8 seconds
* Weight: approximately 1,585 kg
* Fuel tank capacity: 90 litres
The R107 was renowned for combining luxury, safety, reliability and effortless long-distance touring ability. Its timeless styling, removable hardtop and V8 performance helped establish it as one of the defining grand touring cars of the 1970s and 1980s.
This Car
I have owned this 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL for the past 15 years. It came to me from my uncle’s estate, making it a particularly special family car as well as a classic Mercedes-Benz. Over the years it has been carefully enjoyed and maintained, preserving a wonderful example of one of Stuttgart’s most iconic V8 roadsters