1979 | Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC 5,0

Lot details

Year: 1979
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 450 SLC 5.0 litre 'homologation special'
Registration: HHU 648V
Chassis No: WDB10702612000601
Engine No: 11796012000621
Mileage: 78,000
•: 5.0 litre 'homologation special'
•: Multiple magazine-featured

The R107 and C107 were built to exacting engineering standards, unsurprisingly, and with a more than subtle air of sophistication. What marks these streamlined sports cars out from the rest is the comfortable rear seats, sublime power delivery from the larger engined models and of course, the legendary Stuttgart build-quality. These imposing pillarless coupes have now become rare and prices are rising.

When Mercedes-Benz returned to Works rallying in the 1970s, they needed to homologate the 450 SLC's new five-litre V8 rally car and thus the 450 SLC 5.0 was launched, with just 1,636 built between September 1977 and March 1980. By Mercedes-Benz standards, the 5.0 litre 450 SLC was a 'homologation special' when introduced in 1979 to help the works team's rallying efforts. With enlarged 240bhp light-alloy V8 (used throughout 1980s in all big Mercedes) with a three-speed automatic transmission. This super rare and desirable early 450 SLC 5.0 is offered directly from a private Mercedes-Benz collection. The WRC car featured aluminium body panels, front and rear spoilers and was capable of over 140mph top speed and was crowned the first V8-engined car (and the first automatic) to win a World Rally Championship event in a career that was short but impressive.

This genuine left hand drive example is finished in its original light silver metallic with contrasting green velour interior. A multiple magazine-featured fast-road classic with a Homologation heartbeat. One of the rarer cars from The Stuttgart Collection, the history file is a delight and this very rare, left hand drive, multiple magazine-featured, homologation special may be the last 'sleeper' of its kind from this era. Please see full write up here;
https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/mercedes-benz-450slc-50-worlds-least-likely-rally-car

We are informed that the body and underside are free of structural rust, the paintwork presents very well and the interior is delightful. Mechanically the car is described as sound and performs well on the road. Any interested party can feel secure in the knowledge that this car has been well maintained and should they wish for a specialist opinion, they can reach out to the Mercedes-Benz specialist that maintains the vehicle.

The history file contains the vehicle service booklet, magazine articles and early ownership history. Road tested by Martin Buckley for its full feature in Classic &Sports Car magazine this is a rare and desirable example of a homologation special befitting its place at Mercedes-Benz world. Consigned by Mathew Priddy