The Mercedes-Benz R107, particularly the 450SL variant from 1979, stands as a testament to German engineering and timeless design. Even decades after rolling off the Stuttgart production line, this classic roadster continues to captivate enthusiasts and drivers alike. Imagine stepping into a convertible built in 1979 – would you expect rattles, leaks, or a dated feel? The 1979 Mercedes 450sl defies these expectations, offering a driving experience that remains remarkably solid and refined even by today’s standards.
Nicknamed “der Panzerwagen” by its engineers, the R107 was built with an unwavering focus on safety, designed to meet and exceed stringent regulations of its time. This robust construction is immediately evident in the car’s solid feel and enduring quality. Stylistically, the 1979 Mercedes 450SL R107 shares a visual lineage with the iconic W113 “Pagoda” SL, especially with the removable hardtop in place. However, its design language, characterized by slab-sided panels and gently curved edges, also hints at the influence of tanks like the Panzerkampfwagen “Königstiger”, suggesting a blend of elegance and formidable strength. Unlike its six-cylinder predecessors, the R107 is powered by a V8 engine, maintaining Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for sophisticated engineering with overhead camshafts and fuel injection. 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 solidified Mercedes-Benz’s position as a pinnacle of automotive quality, overshadowing struggling luxury brands from Detroit and Coventry.
In 1979, a 450SL carried a price tag of around $32,000, equivalent to approximately $110,000 in today’s money. This investment secured a truly exceptional grand touring machine. The 1979 Mercedes 450SL is engineered for comfortable, long-distance journeys, whether cruising on the Autobahn or exploring scenic routes with the top up or down. The interior, while snug, is thoughtfully appointed for both driver and passenger. Seats upholstered in MB-Tex, a durable and stain-resistant material, offer surprising comfort despite their robustness. While leather was an option, MB-Tex proved to be a practical and long-lasting choice. Real wood trim adorns the dashboard and center console, adding a touch of classic elegance. The removable hardtop, weighing approximately 90 pounds, requires two people or a mechanical lift for removal and installation. Its ingenious latching system ensures a secure and weather-tight fit, eliminating rattles and leaks. When removed, the hardtop can be conveniently stored on a dedicated rolling cart that can be easily disassembled for compact storage in the trunk. The manually operated soft top folds neatly into a compartment behind the seats, preserving valuable trunk space. Regardless of the top configuration, the cabin remains remarkably quiet at speed, akin to a coupe or sedan, and offers excellent all-around visibility, a significant advantage over many convertibles.
Despite its substantial appearance, particularly with the large US-market bumpers, the R107 is actually a relatively compact two-seater. Parked alongside modern vehicles, its true dimensions become apparent. Its low stance emphasizes the importance of defensive driving in today’s traffic, where visibility becomes a crucial safety feature. Beyond certain 1970s styling cues, the 1979 Mercedes 450SL possesses a timeless aesthetic that has aged gracefully. With the top down, it could easily be mistaken for a car from a much more recent era, a testament to its minimalist and enduring design principles.
Turning the ignition key brings the 4.5-liter V8 engine to life with a subtle muscle-car rumble. The US-specification 3-speed automatic transmission prioritizes smooth, reliable operation over sporty performance, performing its duties efficiently and without drama. However, once in motion, the chassis reveals its German engineering pedigree, offering surprisingly nimble and engaging handling. The 450SL is equally comfortable cruising at high speeds or navigating winding backroads, exhibiting precise turn-in and light, responsive steering. While not a sports car in the purest sense of outright speed, it provides an enjoyable and confidence-inspiring driving experience.
On a racetrack, the 1979 Mercedes 450SL is not designed for winning races, but it delivers miles of smiles and never feels out of its depth. Its predictable handling characteristics, transitioning smoothly from neutral to gentle oversteer, encourage spirited driving within its performance envelope. However, drag strip performance is limited by the relaxed nature of the automatic transmission. The R107 embodies a stately and refined approach to sports car performance, emanating from Stuttgart with understated confidence. Fuel economy is typical of a V8 from this era, ranging from 12 to 17 MPG, but thankfully it runs reliably on regular unleaded gasoline. It is not an ideal winter car in snowy climates, as its rear-wheel-drive configuration can become challenging in icy conditions. Similarly, the air conditioning systems in the 1977-1979 models can be prone to issues in very hot climates.
Despite not reaching the stratospheric values of its iconic 300SL “Gullwing” predecessor, the 1979 Mercedes 450SL was a prestigious car in its time, favored by professionals and those seeking refined open-top motoring. Its long production run and exceptional build quality mean that well-maintained examples are still readily available today, often at prices comparable to entry-level modern cars. This makes the 1979 Mercedes 450SL a rare find: an affordable, reliable classic car that offers enjoyable top-down driving and a timeless appeal that continues to resonate with automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
