Car Mercedes Benz 450 SLC 5.0 1979 for sale

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Chassis No. 107.026.12.000389

Unveiled at the 1977 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC 5.0 represented the ultimate evolution of the C107 platform and served as the homologation basis for the marque's renewed international rallying efforts. At its heart was an all-new 5.0-liter aluminum V8 derived from the proven cast iron block 4.5-liter engine, producing 240 horsepower while shedding approximately 40 kilograms (88 pounds). Extensive weight-saving measures included an aluminum hood and trunk lid, lightweight bumpers, alloy wheels, and revised rear suspension components, reducing overall weight by more than 80 kilograms (176 pounds). Aerodynamic enhancements such as a deep front spoiler and black rear deck spoiler helped reduce lift at higher speeds. Along with the distinctive grey lower-body treatment, these were the only subtle hints to its performance pedigree.

The SLC 5.0 quickly proved its capabilities in competition. Driven by Andrew Cowan and Colin Malkin, the model secured victory in the 1978 Vuelta a la América del Sur rally by an impressive 20-minute margin. Further successes followed with a win in the 1979 Bandama Rally and a second-place finish in the grueling Safari Rally, cementing its reputation as one of the most accomplished grand touring rally cars of its era.

Finished in attractive Icon Gold Metallic, this 1979 450 SLC 5.0 is a well-preserved and largely unmodified example of Mercedes-Benz's rare homologation special. Factory amenities include air conditioning, power windows, heated seats, and cruise control. Imported to California in January 1984, it retains its desirable Rest-of-World specification front bumpers, headlamps, and turn signals, while the rear taillamps have been replaced with U.S.-market units.

The car rides on period-correct 16-inch BBS Mahle light-alloy wheels finished with light blue metallic centers and polished lips shod with four new Falken tires. A replacement exhaust system incorporating a MagnaFlow muffler provides a more sporting exhaust note. Accompanying documentation includes paperwork relating to the car's importation and federalization approval. After remaining in a single family since new, the SLC entered The Patina Collective in 2021 and still retains numerous difficult-to-source original details, including its correct aluminum windshield wiper arms, components frequently replaced over the course of the model's lifetime.

A rare and increasingly sought-after homologation-era Mercedes-Benz, this 450 SLC 5.0 combines proven rally pedigree with lightweight engineering and grand touring comfort. Well-presented and thoughtfully preserved, it is offered with 107,482 miles showing at the time of cataloging and represents an excellent opportunity to acquire one of the marque's most significant performance models of the late 1970s.

1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC 5.0 | Global Icons: The Patina Collective

1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC 5.0 | Global Icons: The Patina Collective

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