Step back in time to an era of automotive excellence with the 1979 Mercedes Benz 450sl, a vehicle that epitomizes the enduring quality and sophisticated design of Mercedes-Benz. Even as we approach an age of futuristic vehicles, this classic roadster remains remarkably relevant, a testament to its robust construction and timeless appeal. Forget the leaks, rattles, and squeaks you might expect from a car of this vintage; the 1979 450SL stands as a solid piece of engineering, as dependable today as it was the day it left the factory in Stuttgart. This is a car built like a tank, ready to cruise through the decades with unwavering composure.
The “Panzerwagen” Legacy: Design and Durability
The Mercedes-Benz R107 chassis, the foundation of the 450SL, was born from a commitment to safety and solidity. Internally nicknamed “der Panzerwagen” (the Tank Car) by its engineers, the R107 was designed to exceed stringent safety regulations, ensuring the survival of the roadster body style itself. Drawing inspiration from the formidable Panzer tanks in its robust construction, the 450SL prioritized occupant protection without sacrificing style. While its predecessors, the graceful W198 and W113 “Sport Leicht” series, leaned towards elegant curves, the R107 embraced a more muscular aesthetic, blending slab-sided panels with smoothly radiused edges, reminiscent of the powerful “Königstiger” tank. Unlike the six-cylinder engines of the Gullwing and Pagoda models, the 450SL was powered by a potent V8 engine, featuring overhead cams and fuel injection, carrying forward the technological lineage of its forebears while forging its own path in design and engineering. Produced from 1971 to 1989, the R107 enjoyed a remarkably long and successful production run, 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, as BMW began its ascent and Japanese automakers focused on different market segments.
Inside the Cockpit: Comfort and Ingenious Design
In 1979, purchasing a 450SL meant investing approximately $32,000, equivalent to nearly $110,000 today. This substantial sum secured a truly exceptional vehicle. The 450SL is a genuine Grand Tourer, engineered for comfortable, high-speed journeys across continents, whether with the hardtop in place or open to the sky. The interior, while snug, offers ample comfort for both driver and passenger. Mercedes-Benz utilized MB-Tex for the seats, a remarkably durable and stain-resistant material akin to Kevlar, defying wear and tear while maintaining surprising comfort, unlike many other synthetic materials of the 1970s. Leather upholstery was available as an option but was less commonly chosen than the resilient MB-Tex. Elegant real wood trim adorns the dashboard and center console, adding a touch of classic luxury.
The removable hardtop, weighing around 90 pounds, requires two people or a mechanical lift for removal and installation. However, its latching mechanism is brilliantly designed, ensuring a tight, weatherproof fit, free from rattles or leaks. When removed, the hardtop rests on a purpose-built aluminum trolley with wheels, allowing for easy storage in a garage or storage space. This trolley can be disassembled for compact storage in the generously sized trunk. The manually operated soft top folds neatly into a dedicated compartment behind the seats, preserving all trunk space. Both the hard and soft tops utilize the same windscreen latching system, showcasing intelligent design and versatility. Regardless of the top configuration, the cabin remains remarkably quiet at speed, comparable to a coupe or sedan. Furthermore, the 450SL boasts exceptional all-around visibility in any top configuration, a rare and valuable feature in a convertible.
Driving Dynamics and Road Manners
Despite its seemingly substantial appearance, particularly with the prominent US-market bumpers, the R107 450SL is a relatively compact two-seater. Parked alongside modern vehicles, its true dimensions become apparent. Its low stance necessitates attentive driving in contemporary traffic dominated by larger SUVs, but the excellent visibility proves invaluable in such conditions. Beyond some stylistic cues characteristic of the 70s, the 450SL possesses a timeless design that has aged gracefully, far 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, a testament to its simple, minimalist design.
Turning the ignition key awakens the 4.5-liter V8 engine with a subtle, muscular rumble. The US-specification 3-speed automatic transmission prioritizes smooth, utilitarian performance over sporty engagement. However, once in motion, the chassis reveals its German engineering heritage, exhibiting surprising agility and responsive handling. The 450SL is equally at home cruising effortlessly on the autobahn or navigating winding back roads. It offers precise turn-in and light, nimble steering, making it genuinely enjoyable to drive. While not the quickest car, it offers a rewarding driving experience, encouraging spirited cornering with its balanced and predictable handling characteristics, transitioning smoothly into gentle oversteer when pushed harder. Drag strip performance is not its forte due to the relaxed transmission, but the R107 excels as a refined and confident sports and performance car, embodying Stuttgart engineering without overt flamboyance.
Practical Considerations and Enduring Appeal
The 450SL’s respectable performance comes with a fuel consumption typical of larger vehicles, averaging around 12-17 MPG. However, it commendably runs on regular unleaded fuel, unlike many high-performance cars requiring premium gasoline. It is not ideally suited for harsh winter conditions, as its performance on snow and ice is notably poor. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration can become precarious in slippery conditions, best reserved for warmer climates during winter months. The air conditioning systems in the 1977-1979 models can be prone to issues, suggesting consideration of other model years for owners in hot climates. However, in milder regions, this is less of a concern.
While not reaching the astronomical values of its legendary Gullwing predecessor, the R107 450SL was a prestigious car, favored by professionals and those seeking refined open-top motoring in the 70s and 80s. Thanks to its long production run and exceptional build quality, well-maintained R107s remain readily available, often from long-term ownership, at prices comparable to entry-level modern cars. This makes the 1979 Mercedes Benz 450SL a rare find: an affordable, reliable classic car that offers enjoyable top-down driving and represents exceptional value in the classic car market.
