LOT 170
1980 Mercedes-Benz 450SL Chassis no. 107044-12-061318
Sold for US$31,360 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 170
Delivered new to rock star Tom Petty
1980 Mercedes-Benz 450SL
1980 Mercedes-Benz 450SL
1980 Mercedes-Benz 450SL
Chassis no. 107044-12-061318
Chassis no. 107044-12-061318
4,520cc SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch Fuel Injection
190bhp at 4,750rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*Purchased brand new by legendary musician Tom Petty in 1980
*Beautiful color combination of Black with Tan interior and Black Soft top
*Offered from its 2nd Owner, showing 49,858 miles at the time of cataloging
*Well-preserved example inside and out, lifelong blue plate Southern California car
*Accompanied with Books, Owners Data Plate and Copy of Title all in Tom Petty's name
THE MERCEDES-BENZ R107
When Mercedes-Benz redesigned its famed 'Pagoda top' SL in 1971, there was a lot of equity behind it – after all, when the incomparable 300SL Coupe and Roadster were built fewer than 20 years before, they set the world on fire. The next-generation 230/250/280SL in 1963 brought Mercedes' sports car down to Earth, replacing both the incredible 300SL and four-cylinder 190SL.
For the next SL, Mercedes-Benz started with the chassis of the mid-size "W114/115" model and added the motors from the large "W116" S-Class. The result was a luxurious V8 Convertible that ended up being the longest-running passenger car series ever produced by Mercedes-Benz to date, with production through 1989. With such a long production run, it delivered many automotive icons in various models including the 380SL, 450SL, 500SL and the 560SL.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
Resplendent in beautiful Black paired with tan leather and a black soft top, this attractive and nicely preserved R107 is a particularly desirable example. Offered from the vehicle's second owner, the car has been wonderfully upkept and properly maintained throughout its entire life in Southern California. The seller acquired the car directly from its original owner, legendary musician Tom Petty.
Mr. Petty purchased this Mercedes brand new at Jim Bess Mercedes in Canoga Park, California on March 7th, 1980. The car was cherished and kept in wonderful condition in the 35+ years of his ownership. Like its Pagoda predecessor, the R107 cuts quite a striking, yet highly refined line, especially when paired with factory "bundt" style alloy wheels.
Inside, thick, tan leather remains in good condition. The center console is especially interesting, with its well-preserved wood, ventilation controls inspired by industrial heavy machinery, and gorgeous period-correct Becker Mexico cassette deck. The trio of deeply hooded gauge pods is home to a central, metric speedometer, flanked on the left by a combination fuel level, coolant temp, and oil pressure gauge, and on the right by a tachometer and analog clock. At the time of photography, the car had only crossed a mere 49,858 miles in its 45 years on the road.
The tach's modest 5,300 rpm redline reflects the SOHC-per bank 4.5-liter V8's state of tune, which straight from the factory places an emphasis on smoothness, quietness, and a torque-rich delivery. Paired with a robust 4-speed automatic transmission and an able, smooth-riding chassis, this R107 should make for an exquisite fair-weather GT.
The car is adorned by its wonderful blue California plate along with the Tom Petty signature touch in the form of a peace sign. This Mercedes will be accompanied by its original Mercedes books, complete with all the books and warranty cards filled out in Mr. Petty's name. Additionally, the car will come with a copy of the old title in Mr. Petty's name as well as the original Mercedes owners date plate also stamped in Mr. Petty's name. The car runs and drives well and is ready to be enjoyed by its next caretaker.
Saleroom notices
Note, due to California emissions laws, this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside the state of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.
Additional information
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