Time can be a harsh critic, especially in the automotive world. Fast forward thirty years into the future, envisioning yourself behind the wheel of a 2009 hard top convertible in 2039. With several owners and a six-figure odometer reading, expectations might lean towards leaks, rattles, and squeaks. Perhaps it would even appear dated amidst the futuristic vehicles of 2039, maybe even garbage-powered flying cars!
Yet, amidst this hypothetical future, one can confidently predict the continued presence of 1970s-era Mercedes-Benz cars on the roads. While they might, by then, exhibit some signs of age like rattles or leaks, today, they stand as testaments to enduring quality. Take, for example, the 1979 Mercedes Benz 450sl. Recently, this classic roadster completed a coast-to-coast journey, traversing rain, snow, and sunshine, without a single rattle, leak, or squeak. Its robust construction, earning it the nickname “Panzerwagen” from its engineers, remains as solid as it was when it first left Stuttgart three decades ago. This remarkable durability is a key aspect that continues to draw enthusiasts to the Mercedes Benz 450SL.
The Mercedes Benz 450SL R107 with its iconic pagoda-shaped hard top, highlighting its classic design lineage and robust build.
The design philosophy behind the Mercedes Benz 450SL, internally designated the R107 chassis, prioritized safety above all. Engineers aimed to create a roadster that not only met but exceeded stringent safety regulations, a factor that threatened the very existence of open-top cars at the time. This commitment to safety is reflected in its “Panzerwagen” nickname, drawing a parallel to German tank engineering. Stylistically, the 450SL R107 departs from the graceful curves of its predecessors like the W198 300SL Gullwing and the W113 Pagoda SL. Instead, it embraces a more muscular aesthetic, with slab-sided shapes and long, sweeping radii, perhaps taking design cues from the powerful Panzerkampfwagen “Königstiger” tank. Unlike the six-cylinder engines of the Gullwing and Pagoda, the Mercedes Benz 450SL is powered by a robust V-8 engine, featuring overhead cams and fuel injection, inheriting technological advancements from its lineage while forging its own path in design and performance. The removable hard top, reminiscent of the Pagoda shape, further connects it to its heritage.
The Mercedes Benz 450SL enjoyed immense popularity during its remarkably long production run from 1971 to 1989, with over a quarter of a million units manufactured. This era cemented Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for unparalleled quality, standing tall above struggling luxury brands from Detroit and Coventry. While BMW was beginning its ascent in the luxury market, and Japanese manufacturers were making inroads in the entry-level segment, Mercedes-Benz reigned supreme. This historical context emphasizes the 450SL’s position as a product of a golden age for Mercedes-Benz, a time when “quality” was intrinsically linked to the brand.
A side-by-side comparison of the Mercedes Benz 450SL R107 and the legendary 300SL (W194), highlighting the generational design shifts and Mercedes-Benz lineage.
In 1979, a Mercedes Benz 450SL carried a price tag of around $32,000. Adjusted for inflation to 2009, this equates to nearly $110,000, just shy of the price of a Kia Rio. What did this significant investment in the late 70s secure? An exceptional driving experience. The 450SL is a true Grand Tourer, engineered for comfortable, long-distance journeys on the Autobahn, whether with the hard top, soft top, or open to the elements. The interior, while snug, provides ample comfort for both occupants. The seats are upholstered in MB-Tex, a durable, wear-resistant, and surprisingly comfortable synthetic material developed by Mercedes-Benz, far superior to typical 70s-era synthetic seating. Leather was an available option but less commonly chosen for the roadster, while aftermarket sheepskin seat covers were a popular, albeit less desirable today, trend of the disco era. Tasteful real wood trim adorns the dashboard and center console, adding a touch of luxury.
The removable hard top, weighing approximately 90 pounds, necessitates two people or a garage-mounted lift for removal and installation. However, its ingenious latching mechanism ensures a secure, rattle-free, and watertight fit. When removed, the hard top is stored on a purpose-designed aluminum rack with wheels, allowing for easy maneuvering and storage. The rack itself can be disassembled for compact storage in the generously sized trunk. The manually operated soft top neatly folds away into a dedicated compartment behind the seats, preserving valuable trunk space – a thoughtful design element often overlooked in modern convertibles. Both hard and soft tops utilize the same windscreen latches and provide impressive noise isolation, making the cabin as quiet as a coupe or sedan, regardless of the top configuration. Furthermore, the Mercedes Benz 450SL boasts excellent all-around visibility, a significant advantage in any top configuration.
Detail of the Mercedes Benz 450SL’s hard top and its cleverly engineered storage cart, emphasizing the vehicle’s thoughtful design and owner convenience.
Despite its perceived size, particularly with the prominent US-market bumpers, the Mercedes Benz 450SL is actually a relatively compact two-seater. Parked alongside contemporary vehicles, its true dimensions become apparent. Its low stance necessitates defensive driving in modern traffic dominated by larger SUVs, but the excellent visibility proves invaluable in such conditions. Beyond some stylistic cues indicative of the 1970s, the 450SL possesses a timeless design that has aged gracefully, surpassing many of its contemporaries from the disco era. With the top down, it could easily be mistaken for a car from any of the last four decades, testament to the enduring appeal of simple shapes and minimalist design.
A Mercedes Benz 450SL R107 parked in a modern setting, visually highlighting its smaller footprint compared to contemporary vehicles.
Igniting the 4.5-liter V-8 engine produces a subtle muscle-car rumble, hinting at its capabilities. The US-spec 3-speed automatic transmission prioritizes smooth, utilitarian performance over sporty engagement, fulfilling its function without drama or excitement. However, once in motion, the chassis reveals its German engineering heritage with surprisingly agile and responsive handling. The 450SL effortlessly cruises at Autobahn speeds while also confidently navigating winding backroads. Its turn-in is sharp, and the steering is light and nimble. While not the quickest car in a straight line, it offers genuine driving enjoyment when pushed.
An unexpected scene of a Mercedes Benz 450SL R107 on a racetrack, demonstrating its surprising versatility and handling capabilities beyond cruising.
On a racetrack, the Mercedes Benz 450SL is not designed for outright victory, but it delivers miles of smiles and inspires driver confidence. Its handling remains composed even at the limits, exhibiting neutral characteristics transitioning to predictable throttle oversteer when pushed harder in corners. However, drag strip performance is limited by the relaxed nature of the automatic transmission. The R107 embodies a refined and stately sports/performance car, representing Stuttgart engineering without overt flamboyance.
The trade-off for its respectable performance is fuel consumption, with the 450SL averaging around 12-17 MPG. Fortunately, it runs reliably on regular unleaded fuel, unlike some high-performance vehicles requiring premium gasoline. However, it is not an ideal winter car in colder climates. Its performance on snow and ice ranges from poor to treacherous, prone to sudden loss of control even in light snow. It is best suited for parking during winter months. The air conditioning systems, particularly in the 1977-1979 models, can be prone to issues, making it less suitable for extremely hot climates like Houston. However, in milder climates, like the Pacific Northwest, these issues are less relevant.
A humorous image conveying the Mercedes Benz 450SL R107’s less-than-ideal performance in snowy conditions, advising caution to potential owners in winter climates.
While not reaching the stratospheric values of the iconic 300SL Gullwing, the Mercedes Benz 450SL was a prestigious vehicle, favored by professionals of the 70s and 80s – doctors, bankers, dentists, and those enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. Its long production run, coupled with Mercedes-Benz’s legendary build quality of that era, ensures a plentiful supply of well-maintained R107s on the market today. Many are available from original owners, often at prices comparable to entry-level modern cars. The Mercedes Benz 450SL thus represents a rare combination: an affordable, reliable classic car that offers enjoyable open-top motoring at a relatively accessible price point, making it an enticing option for classic car enthusiasts.
