Car group tests

1980 Mercedes 450 SL

The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for

by: Auto Express team

8 Aug 2012

.polaris__post-meta--date { display: none; } .polaris__post-meta--date.no-script { display: block; padding-left: 45px } 8 Aug 2012

1
Introduction
2
1955 300 SL Gullwing
3
1956 190 SL
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda
5
1980 450 SL - currently reading
6
2001 SL 500
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for.

Over the years, Mercedes tried out a number of engines in this model, ranging from a 2.8-litre six-cylinder to a 5.6-litre V8.

This 450 SL was powered by a 4.5-litre V8 – and the performance jump over earlier SLs is massive.

Be warned, though – only fans of the eighties are likely to be won over by the hideous wood veneer dashboard.

Go Back to1969 280 SL Pagoda

Continue Reading2001 SL 500

In this review

1
IntroductionWe line up the new Mercedes SL with its forebears in an exclusive showdown
2
1955 300 SL GullwingFor any car fan, it’s a privilege to lift the surprisingly light gullwing door, climb over the wide sill and drop into the 300 SL’s low-slung seat.
3
1956 190 SLThe 190 SL was built to be a 300 SL for the masses, and is far less satisfying from behind the wheel.
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda
5
1980 450 SL - currently readingThe third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for
6
2001 SL 500
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

Cars

1980 Mercedes 450 SL

The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for

In this review

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