Highlights

Recently received a full re-spray in Metallic Icon Gold
Renowned M117 V8 engine
Excellent condition overall

The Appeal

Initially released in 1971 alongside Mercedes' SL (R107), the SLC would offer better functionality than its counterpart, due to the 4 seats on offer and spacious cabin. The 450SLC received Mercedes' renowned M117 engine, a smooth running yet powerful V8 coupled to a 3-speed automatic gearbox.

This engine boasted advanced for the time Bosch D-Jet fuel injection to further improve smoothness. The SLC didn't stop at the engine when it came to desirable mechanics, coil springs and trailing arms handled the suspension side of things while vented front discs and standard rear discs ensured good stopping power. The styling of the 450SLC has matured into a class of its on, now serving as a beautiful reminder of Mercedes' deserved reputation for top quality and tasteful craftmanship. The 450SLC is in essence a grand tourer which offers more space and functionality than the SL while still retaining many of the gorgeous design features.

The History and Paperwork

MOT until 19/09/2023 with no advisories
Historic vehicle and thus, MOT and tax exempt
Less than 8,000 miles covered in the last 6 years
First registered 01/10/1979
Supplied new by B&K Thomas Ltd, Mercedes-Benz of Nottingham
Current owner reluctantly selling as no time to use
Vehicle received a speedometer change in March 2009 at 83,467 miles, current speedometer reading 38,522 giving for total mileage of 121,989
Service history since 1979 and for almost every year, independent, comprehensive for the last 20 years
Bills present for over £15000 of work
Last serviced 08/22 and covered less than 300 miles since
Service book present and stamped up to 31,356 miles /2017 (reflects new speedometer change)
Current owner had the vehicle fully re-sprayed in metallic Icon Gold in late 2022 at a cost of nearly £4,000
Original interior
Vehicle has been kept garaged by current owner when not in use
Excellent condition for the age and mileage
Original owner's manuals supplied and in good condition
Current owner is an enthusiast who has taken great care during his ownership

The Interior

Original Brazil velour interior in very good to excellent condition, a more expensive option than leather when new!
Seats absent of any rips or tears and remain in excellent condition
1 very small mark to rear of passenger seat, possibly superficial
All features such as sunroof etc in working order
Original Pioneer radio headset present and functioning
Walnut wood trim in very good condition throughout
Headlining present and secure, remains in very good condition with sunroof both open and closed
Carpets present and in very good condition throughout
Door cards present and secure, both remain in very good to excellent condition
Dashboard plastics remain in excellent condition free from any cracks or breaks, a common problem on vehicles from the era
Parcel shelf remains in very good condition with emergency first aid kit present
Boot remains in a very good condition with full-size spare wheel, jack and warning triangle all present and in good condition, underside of boot lid not colour matched with exterior

The Exterior

Gorgeous Icon Gold metallic paint remains in excellent condition (re-sprayed in late 2022 during current ownership
Rear arches welded and new sunroof trim fitted during re-spray work
Window trim replaced in 05/23 during current ownership, remains in excellent condition
Desirable dual fog lights mounted under the front bumper, remain in very good condition
Brightwork and badges are all in excellent condition
Glass remains in excellent condition with the exception of the lower rear windscreen, some fogging present
Black bumpers remain in good condition throughout, 2 small cracks to offside front corner and nearside rear corner, only noticeable when inspecting closely
Door sills remain in very good condition, previously repaired in 2019 due to corrosion
Sunroof functions as expected with good panel gaps when closed and open
4 matching Nankang tyres, all with very good tread
Original 'Mexican Hat' style alloys all remain in excellent condition
Period correct black and silver number plate front and rear
Chrome wingmirrors remain in very good condition

The Mechanics

Smooth M117 4.5 litre V8 engine starts 'on the button'
Recently serviced 08/22, covered less than 300 miles since
Current owner reports new front brake pads fitted, a new alternator belt, power assisted steering belt and PAS fluid change throughout the last year, bills confirm
Desirable S (slope) and L (low i.e., 1st) gears present on automatic gearbox
Engine bay and underside both remain in a tidy, used condition
Paint starting to peel on the air intake
High tension ignition lead set fitted 01/17
Overhauled throttle body and oil cooler fitted 10/17, during last ownership
New rear brake callipers fitted 06/16
New washer pump fitted 02/18 and battery replaced 06/18
Dual exit exhaust tips starting to show some signs of age
Thorough collection of past 22 MOT's present with vehicle
Current owner advises that the vehicle drives and stops well, as it should and in a straight line

Summary

Put simply, this 450SLC remains in excellent condition overall. While often overlooked due to the more infamous SL, the SLC certainly offers a more practical car. Four adults can comfortably fit in and importantly, this is achieved without compromise on the styling. The current owner of this example has evidently cherished it dearly and wasted no expense in not only maintaining but also improving this wonderful vehicle.

The Icon Gold paintwork will not only catch your eye but stay in your mind even once you've parked up. Running smoothly and with an equally impressive interior, this proves to be a top opportunity to own an excellent example of Mercedes' classic 450SLC.

Notice to bidders

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