Looking to buy 450 SLC...
 

Several years ago, I had a 1977 280 SLC (European model). I loved it, and it was probably my favorite car of all time. Alas, a very stupid woman T-boned me in SC, and totalled my beautiful ride.

Anyway, I have located a 1980 450 SLC 5.0 litre. Pretty much the same car I used to have, except it has the 5.0L V8, which I assume is a larger displacement version of the 4.5 L (European model). Is there anything I should be looking for on one of these cars before I buy one (other than rust, I already know about that one)?

The vitals on the car are:

77,000 miles
One owner
Service records available

I have only had one MB V8 (1984 380 SEL), and the tensioner blew up, and I had to have both heads rebuilt. Is this a common problem with all/most 80's vintage MB V8's? Any other gotcha's I should be aware of??? What is a fair price for one of these babies?

As with all M116 / M117 engines, check for timing chain stretch and chain guide / tensior wear.

This forum is full of stories with owners experiencing bent valves, etc. due to a timing chain becoming so loose that it skips a link on the cam sprocket, or a loose chain slapping against a plastic chain guide, the plastic bits get caught in the sprocket, causing a valve to hit a piston or ruining a camshaft.

Well, first off, a 5.0 SLC is one of the rarest MBZ coupes available. If you're going to get it as an everyday car, I'd caution you that you are driving a car that is one of the last sleeper classics. It's a cult car in Europe.

I have a '79 5.0 #677. 5.0's were made in '78 & '79 while the 500 was made in '80 & '81.

Search on this list for '5.0 SLC' and you'll find more info. You can also check out www.mbz.org for more.

I highly recommend the car - just don't get it for everyday driving, it's to rare. You'll be amazed at the car compared to your old 280 SLC.

Steve Guilford
107 026 12 000677