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 £110,030Used from £69,990
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,175Avg. savings £2,819 off RRP*Used from £7,495
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,870Avg. savings £5,936 off RRP*Used from £8,633
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £38,050Avg. savings £3,360 off RRP*Used from £27,568
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New BYD Ti7 is China’s answer to the Land Rover Defender, and it’s coming to the UK
BYD Ti7 - front

New BYD Ti7 is China’s answer to the Land Rover Defender, and it’s coming to the UK

A new, high-end, high powered seven-seat SUV is coming from the Chinese brand, with punchy pricing
News
19 May 2026
New Kia EV1 to arrive in 2028, and Hyundai Ioniq 1 won’t be far behind
Kia EV1 - front (watermarked)

New Kia EV1 to arrive in 2028, and Hyundai Ioniq 1 won’t be far behind

The Renault Twingo rival will use a bespoke EV architecture that’s being jointly developed by Kia and Hyundai
News
20 May 2026
Car Deal of the Day: Renault 5 has retro style for under £200 a month
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Renault 5 has retro style for under £200 a month

Prices have dropped for the best-selling Renault 5, and it’s our Deal of the Day for 20 May.
News
20 May 2026