Description
1973 Mercedes 450SLC. Quite unique, formerly owned by Peter Sellers. Simply stunning.
With over 60 films to his name as well as a solid position within the heart of the nation, Peter Sellers also had another side, his love of cars. Before he moved over to a mouth-watering selection of Ferraris, Sellers had more modest tastes, these included a number of Radford Minis as well as one particular Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC.
This 1973 450 SLC finished in Astral Silver was originally registered to Blake Edwards, director of the highly acclaimed Pink Panther films, before it was passed on to Sellers. Edwards bought the car for his wife Julie Andrews, and they would drive it between the UK and Spain where the couple had a holiday home. The car was repatriated to the UK in and subsequently re-registered in 1975 when Sellers took custody.
10 years ago, in 2016 the car underwent a complete five-year nut and bolt mechanical and body restoration under the supervision of Ian Berg, himself a film producer and car enthusiast. It is well documented that he undertook the full restoration of Inspector Morse’s Jaguar MK2 and the Lynx Eventer, once owned by the Gucci family, Berg is no stranger to celebrity car reincarnations.
“I’m a film producer and authenticity is really important to me, to put it back in a condition that’s as new. As you look at that piece of history, if you then preserve that and bring it up to the standard where it’s going to survive, then you’re giving it a whole new life,” he quoted.
The engine was rebuilt, the electronics renewed and the suspension and brakes refurbished. “It will do 120mph on the autobahn. It’s like driving a modern car, but with all the style of a classic. These cars are very rare now, and I think that this is probably the best example in the world now”
Watley Classics is very proud to own and present such an amazing piece of history, the car has been in our custody for five years and weather permitting gets used as often as possible. It’s a delight to drive and receives admiring comments wherever it goes. This really is a unique proposition for its next owner. The car has in the last 18 months has had some light corrective maintenance conducted by highly regarded Pentangle Mercedes and the pertaining invoice has been kept on file.
A new MOT will be conducted upon conclusion of sale.
