the 1980 450 SLC 5.0 was manufactured in limited numbers and was an obviously expensive
venture for the factory. 1,470 examples were built for road use, just enough for
ONS/FIA homologation. Only a fraction were used as competition coupes in various
motorsport arenas. Reportedly, only 40 examples were sold new in the United Sates.
Primarily a factory experimental car, this 450 SLC 5.0 was exclusively equipped with
the brand new "one year only, all aluminum" 5.0 power plant, delivering 240 Horsepower
to the rear wheels. Using the feedback and date received through competition use, an
aluminum alloy 5.0 Liter V8 made it into production in 1980, albiet in slightly
modified abd with one additional cubic inch of displacement. A stock 450 SLC
5.0 Lightweight Coupe will outperform most contemporary Mercedes, including the
450 SEL 6.9 and even the newer generation's fastest contenders, the 560 SEC and SL.
The factory plate identifies all of the options that the car was delivered new with,
including the colour code 735G (Glasurit Astral Silver), and upholstery code
201 (Black Leather 9028). The codes translate like this:
404: Single seats with orthopaedic front seat backrest, left
405: Single seats with orthopaedic front seat backrest, right
440: Tempomat (cruise control)
466: Central locking mechanism
480: Self-levelling device
502: Outside rearview mirror, on the right
511: Becker Radio Set
581: Automatic Climate Control
584: Window regulators, electric
590: Heat-absorbing glass, wrap-around, heated rear window pane
600: Headlamp cleaning system
682: Fire extinguisher
256: Rear axle with limited-slip differential
355: Antenna used for telephone, on left rear fender
1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC 5.0 Factory Lightweight Rally Competition Coupe.
This example features alloy hoods, alloy wheels, alloy engine, lightened
alloy door skins, and many vintage competition parts. Being an older
restoration, this competition coupe still shows very well. The undercarriage
is preserved and gives testimony to many years spent in a desert climate.
Approximately 763 miles have accumulated on the refurbished odometer since
the restoration was complete. This rare Mercedes coupe is ready for the
club events, Vintage Rallye, or to be enjoyed as a daily driver.
Mercedes-Benz Quality Second To None!
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