Lot 383: Mercedes-Benz 450SL Convertible

First introduced in 1971/72, the V8-engined 450SL convertible and 450SLC 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 engine. Built on a longer wheelbase, the coup� accommodated two rear-seat passengers and provided greater boot space than its open-topped sibling The latter though, was vastly more popular, outselling the coup� more by than 2 to 1 before production ceased in 1980. The running gear followed Mercedes-Benz�s established pattern, comprising all-independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with the option of either four-speed manual or automatic transmission. Its makers� increasing preoccupation with safety was evident in the design of the 450SL�s interior, which boasted a padded dash top, recessed or flexibly mounted switchgear 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 in excess of 130mph.
The last word in motoring opulence in its day, this automatic-transmission 450SL Convertible comes with full service history up to 87,000 miles and has covered a total of 113,000 from new. In the vendor�s possession for the past five years, �WBL 197S� benefits from extensive bodywork renovation, new leather front seats/headrests, four new tyres, new rear exhaust and new convertible hood, and comes complete with hardtop. Finished in silver with black leather interior, the car is offered with handbook, service book, sundry bills, old-style logbook, current road fund licence and MoT to March 2010.