Mercedes-Benz 1978 450SL convertible coupe (black on red)

Listed is a 1978 450 SL Mercedes Benz. I have owned this car since 1998 and I am the third owner. The car was originally purchased by the owner, founder and inventor of Armor-All from Fletcher Jones Mercedes-Benz Newport Beach, California brand new for his wife. The second owner repurchase the car from Fletcher Jones, and it was his wife's car as well. I am the third owner and have owned and cared for this fine automobile for approximately 18 years, and in those 18 years I have put roughly 5000 to 5500 miles on the car. The car had originally 78,800 miles when I purchased it, and today it's just barely over 83,000, original documented miles.

The motor and transmission is very smooth and runs strong as it should. The transmission shifts so smooth and solid without any hesitations. The motor runs very cool and at very normal temperature - it's never overheated at all. This car passes California smog every single time on the highest scale.

This car was refurbished in the fall of 1998 by the second owner with original Mercedes black paint, including all new red carpeting, rebuilt seats, cushions and springs including some of the original red leather was replaced. The carpet in the trunk is new as well. The ragtop underneath was brand-new when I purchased it, and still looks the same. The plastic windows are clean and clear. The black rag has only been put up for storage in the garage with a car cover and really hasn't seen much of any day light. This car also comes with the original matching black hard top and includes the movable storage stand. I have the original steering wheel and the original Becker Mexico radio that came with the car. The first aid kit is in the trunk.

Things to be addressed: the AC is not operable and hasn't been since the day I bought it. Since I only drive the car in perfect weather conditions and live near the coast, I really never needed to use the air conditioner. That said, all the original components to the AC equipment has never been removed or touched. I have had a couple of quotations to replace the AC compressor that frozen up on the second owner. To replace the seals and the compressor and upgrade to the new Freon, it's about $1800.00 is was quoted.The cruise control does not work, and I've never had any mechanics look into it and/or the AC because I didn't want to risk the chance of them leaning over the fenders and scratching the car.

What is new: the Bosch battery (6 months old), fuel pump, fuel filter, all new factory OEM fuel hoses, including the fuel hose to the fuel tank. Routine oil and filter changes, and antifreeze and break fluids. The car has only been touched by certified Mercedes-Benz specialized mechanics for the tune up and above-mentioned work. Upgraded/updated OEM MBZ wheels - tires are Bridgestone's.

Options; on this beautiful 1978 Mercedes-Benz 450SL include: AM/FM/CD, Manual Convertible Top, OEM MBZ wheels, Power Brakes, Power Steering, Power Windows, and Seat Belts.

So, the question is what am I selling the car - honestly, I don't want to? However, we simply do not use the car enough together to enjoy it, and based on the miles I have put on it over the last 18 years, mainly no time for joy rides anymore and my boys are too big now.We have decided to sell and buy a nice used truck to pull our toys with.

I'm not really interested in any trades, unless however you happen to have a crew cab truck laying around that you're not using very often either! Maybe you might be thinking of selling it! I would certainly consider a trade depending on the truck. I'm looking for a very well-kept used, either Chevy, Ford or Dodge, WITH DIESEL, power stroke ford, or Duramax Chevy or Cummins ram truck. Please, I'm interested in an equal valued truck, clean and in great condition(Turn Key) as my Mercedes. Your truck needs to be a 3/4 or 1 ton and can be either a Dully or not. Please no quarter cabs, crew cabs only! We need something for the whole family and to pull our boat and or travel trailer.

Please don't hesitate to ask any questions that I may have left uncovered, or any doubts. This is a smooth and comfortable driving 450SL (the real deal - not the 380 or the 560) car with no rattles to make you crazy - it's a solid car with a perfect color scheme which is very rare and sought after for this era. Not to mention, this car gets tons of looks, and at times, you can hardly pump your gas without somebody commenting on it or asking what year it is - when they hear it's almost 40 years old, they take a double take - what...! This car has been in many car shows for fun, and even invited to the museum of President Ronald Ragan in Simi Valley, California, and parked right under President Ronald Ragan's Air Force One that is on display.

We reserve the right to cancel any and all bids at our discretion, or end the auction early if necessary.

The bidder is relying solely on his/her own inspection, knowledge and judgment on this vehicle.

All shipping charges are buyer's responsibility

Thanks for your time and consideration, and please bid what you mean to part with.