1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC Coupé

• USA-specification model
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Present ownership since 2019
• Freshly repainted

First introduced in 1971/72, the luxurious 450 SL roadster and 450 SLC coupé were outwardly identical to their '350' (3.5-litre) sister models, though endowed with superior performance courtesy of a more powerful 4.5-litre V8 engine. Built on a longer wheelbase, the coupé accommodated two rear seat passengers and provided greater boot space than the roadster. Mercedes-Benz's increasing preoccupation with safety was evident in the design of the interior, which boasted a padded dash top, recessed or flexibly mounted switch gear, 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 coupé was around 215km/h (approximately133mph).

Autocar magazine's summary of the 450 SLC described it as "Luxury high performance for four in splendid comfort," going on to praise the car's "high standard of roadholding, handling and safe ride..." before concluding: "expensive but beautifully engineered – a car for the connoisseur."

The 450 SL/SLC remained in production until October/November 1980, by which time 31,739 SLC coupés had been sold compared with 66,298 examples of the SL roadster. An elegant and timeless design, the 450 SL/SLC looks as good today as it did when first unveiled back in 1971, which in no small measure explains its enduring popularity with collectors.

This relatively rare 450 SLC coupé was imported from the USA to Lebanon in 2000. It is a USA specification model; however, the current owner has fitted the European style bumpers, giving the car a much cleaner and more elegant appearance. Our vendor owned the car in Lebanon from 2019 before importing and registering it in the UK in 2020. The vendor advises us that the bodywork is in good condition and has received fresh paintwork. The car is said to present very well overall, with a strong engine displaying good oil pressure, and should be enjoyable for many more years to come. Offered with jack, tools and a V5C Registration Certificate.