Back in 1971, the all-new Mercedes-Benz 350SL 4.5 convertible replaced the 230/250/280SL, which, in turn had the 190SL and legendary 300SL as dual predecessors. At the time, Road & Track magazine commented on the evolution of this respected automobile: “Absolutely loaded with new ideas in ergonomics, comfort and convenience, it clearly shows that Mercedes engineers and designers had seven years to work it out.” The ultimate conclusion from this respected American car monthly was, “The ultimate two-seat luxury car.” Road & Track also asked, “…why do we dwell on history?” The reason is easy to quantify in that the Mercedes-Benz SL convertible changed remarkably little over the 15 year period in discussion; yet it managed to remain incredibly current and amazingly desirable.

This exciting example looks fantastic in black with tan interior and is offered with both the soft-top (newly fitted in black) and removable hardtop. The less than 44,500 miles on the odometer are registered as actual and the overall condition is stated to be original. This model runs with the 5,547-cc (5.5-liters), 227-hp V-8 engine matched with a four-speed automatic transmission and has an advertised top speed of 149-mph. Factory equipped with many comfort and convenience features; the 560SL platform includes air conditioning, AM/FM radio; power windows, steering and four-wheel disc brakes.

The SL series in this period carved an enviable niche for itself as a town and touring car for the well-to-do lady or gentleman wanting luxury, reliability, status and plenty of V-8 power. Others deemed the car to be a “middle-age hot rod; it surprises lots of folks not used to seeing a Mercedes driven with such verve.”