Description
This car is to be auctioned at 'Beaulieu, National Motor Museum'
USA-specification model Left-hand drive Automatic transmission Present ownership since 2019 Freshly repainted
First introduced in 1971/ 72, the luxurious 450 SL roadster and 450 SLC coup were outwardly identical to their '350' (3. 5-litre) sister models, though endowed with superior performance courtesy of a more powerful 4. 5-litre V8 engine. Built on a longer wheelbase, the coup accommodated two rear seat passengers and provided greater boot space than the roadster. Mercedes-Benz's increasing preoccupation with safety was evident in the design of the interior, which boasted a padded dash top, recessed or flexibly mounted switch gear, and padded steering wheel on a 'collapsible' column. Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection was standardised for 1975, electronic ignition and self-adjusting hydraulic tappets being introduced at the same time. Maximum speed of this superbly equipped top-of-the-range coup was around 215km/ h (approximately133mph).
Autocar magazine's summary of the 450 SLC described it as Luxury high performance for four in splendid comfort, going on to praise the car's high standard of roadholding, handling and safe
ride... before concluding: expensive but beautifully engineered
a car for the connoisseur.
The 450 SL/ SLC remained in production until October/ November 1980, by which time 31, 739 SLC coups had been sold compared with 66, 298 examples of the SL roadster. An elegant and timeless design, the 450 SL/ SLC looks as good today as it did when first unveiled back in 1971, which in no small measure explains its enduring popularity with collectors.
This relatively rare 450 SLC coup was imported from the USA to Lebanon in 2000. It is a USA specification model; however, the current owner has fitted the European style bumpers, giving the car a much cleaner and more elegant appearance. Our vendor owned the car in Lebanon from 2019 before importing and registering it in the UK in 2020. The vendor advises us that the bodywork is in good condition and has received fresh paintwork. The car is said to present very well overall, with a strong engine displaying good oil pressure, and should be enjoyable for many more years to come. Offered with jack, tools and a V5C Registration Certificate.
AUCTION TIMES
Friday, 1st September, starting at 11:00 CEST
Please contact Bonhams directly to receive a condition report with the lot number/ s of interest by clicking 'Message the seller'
LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTION
Please contact our Bids Department to register by clicking 'Message the seller'
COLLECTION OF PURCHASED LOTS
Purchases will only be released when cleared funds are received in full. Collections must be arranged with Bonhams staff. All Buyers should contact Richard Stafford to give instruction, or to seek further information.
Indigo Blue European Limited - details above using the button below +44 (0) the details below
Motor Cars Removal and Storage of Vehicles Cars cannot be removed on Saturday 2 or Sunday 3 September. Cars may be removed on Monday 4 September up until midday once full payment has been received / entry fees having been settled and by liaising with the Motor Car Department directly in good time. If you are unable to collect your vehicle by the given time, Lots shall be removed by Indigo Blue to storage at the Buyer’s expense (see below). Lots are at the Buyer’s risk from the fall of the hammer. It is strongly advisable that overseas purchasers and absentee bidders make arrangements regarding collection with Bonhams in advance of Sale. Cars under customs cannot be collected from the venue and can only be released once customs is cleared.
Transport and Shipping A representative of Indigo Blue, will be at the Sale and can arrange national and international transportation as agent for the Buyer or the Seller (as the case may be).
AUCTION ADDRESS
National Motor Museum,
Beaulieu,
John Montagu Building,
Beaulieu,
Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN,
United Kingdom
