Frank Barrett gives all 72-80 450 SL's 3 stars (out of five).

Among the 450 SL's, he likes the pre-74 the best because they have the euro bumpers. The first couple of years had the best performance because they weren't strangled with emissions equipment.

The 72-74 U.S. models could use leaded or unleaded gasoline, but 75 and 76 models had the most vapor lock problems because their catalytic converters were in the engine compartment, where airflow was restricted by the tight-fitting engine hood. For 1977, the catalytic converters were moved back beneath the floor.

For 1976, CIS fuel imjection replaced the earlier electronic ignition, accompanied by hydraulic valve lifters and breakerless electronic ignition.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".