Following up on my latest 2009 SL600 characteristic story, I wished to roll again the clock to about 30 years prior and assessment an instance of a Mercedes roadster from the disco period. This one has an unmistakably distinctive id.

The Decide of the Day is a 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SL convertible listed on the market on ClassicCars.com by a non-public vendor in Yorba Linda, California. (Click on the hyperlink to view the itemizing)

We had higher discuss that colour earlier than we dive into every other commentary on the automobile, as a result of – let’s be trustworthy – its undoubtedly the very first thing that caught your eye (and mine). Over its mannequin lifespan between mannequin years 1971 and 1989, the “R107” SL-Sequence was provided in a staggering 110 completely different colours. They’re documented in The Full R107 SL Mercedes Colour Photograph Information. 

Scanning the catalog, there are a number of colours that come remotely near purple, however definitely nothing as vivid as what we see on right this moment’s characteristic automobile. The customized hue extends to the detachable hardtop and even the hubcaps. “Hanging” is placing it frivolously.  Other than the eye-catching purple colour, the vendor stays that a lot of the remainder of the automobile is unique. It as reportedly been garage-kept, and it has lived in California and New Mexico, so the physique is rust-free. A alternative convertible prime is included with the sale, nevertheless it has not but been put in.

The vendor says that the automobile, “Drives good, shifts good,” and that a big service was carried out in 2021 which included alternative of the distributor, stress regulator, gas strains, accumulator, muffler, spark plugs, tie rod assemblies, rear sway bar, and battery. This heavy-duty upkeep carried a price ticket of $5,500. Hopefully with these objects taken care of, the customer can drive away with peace of thoughts.

Nearly any practically 50-year-old automobile will after all have its quirks, and the vendor says that the heater dial on this automobile is sensitive, and the air-con system wants some consideration.

Even contemplating these points, the asking worth of $11,000 looks as if a good entry level for a rust-free automobile with an excessive amount of latest service. Along with the uninstalled alternative convertible prime, this features a automobile cowl, an proprietor’s handbook, a upkeep handbook, and a primary assist equipment.

As you enthusiastic about purple? Look no additional than this Mercedes-Benz SL.

To view this itemizing on ClassicCars.com, see Decide of the Day.