Skip advert
Advertisement

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

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.

Advertisement - Article continues below

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Mercedes SL Class

Mercedes SL Class

RRP £109,910Used from £73,990
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £7,097 off RRP*Used from £10,799
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £1,535 off RRP*
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £3,266 off RRP*Used from £13,902
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

It “makes sense” for Geely to build cars in the UK
Geely Starray UK - front action

It “makes sense” for Geely to build cars in the UK

The third-largest Chinese manufacturer could have a new car building home in Britain
News
18 Feb 2026
New Toyota Yaris in-line for major rethink to try and please hybrid and EV buyers
Toyota Yaris - front (watermarked)

New Toyota Yaris in-line for major rethink to try and please hybrid and EV buyers

The Mk5 Toyota Yaris will be offered with internal-combustion, hybrid and electric powertrains to suit buyers’ needs, and our exclusive images preview…
News
16 Feb 2026
Ford and Renault EV deal: Fiesta and other new EVs will ‘feel like Fords’
Ford with Renault

Ford and Renault EV deal: Fiesta and other new EVs will ‘feel like Fords’

Renault boss Provost confirms new Ford supermini EV will feel like a Ford, not a rebodied R5
News
19 Feb 2026