1978 Mercedes Benz 450SL Convertible, Registration no. BOK 225T Chassis no. 10704422048689 Engine no. 11798522031675

Odometer reading: 85,000
MOT: Exempt

*Automatic transmission
*Off the road since 2013
*Full Mercedes-Benz service history to December 1995
*Offered for re-commissioning

First introduced in 1971/72, the luxurious 450 SL convertible 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 convertible. 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 switchgear 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 these superbly equipped top-of-the-range models was in excess of 130mph.
Finished in red with original tan leather interior, this automatic transmission 450 SL has been in the current ownership for the last 25 years and was in continuous use until 2013 when it was taken off the road. The car comes with full Mercedes-Benz service history up to December 1995 at 75,808 miles, while subsequent maintenance saw two exhaust manifolds replaced by Mercedes Drayton Stafford in August 2000. As well as the aforementioned history the Mercedes also comes with most MoTs for the period 1988 to 2012; sundry bills; an old-style logbook; and a V5C document. Re-commissioning will be required before the car returns to the road.

Vendor Score Total: 54 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 13 /25
Body Work: 2
Paint: 2
Glass: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 2

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 12 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 3
Axles: 3
Suspension: 3
Brakes: 3

INTERIOR TOTAL: 12 /20
Seats: 3
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 3
Trim: 3

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 4 /10
Main components: 2
Ancillary components: 2

ENGINE TOTAL: 9 /20
Starting: 2
Running: 2
Under Bonnet: 2
Mechanical components: 3

Car History File: 4