SL/SLC-Class (R107) 1971-1989 : 250SL, 280SL, 450 SL, 380 SLC, 450 SL, 380 SL, 560 SL

SL/R107: 1981 450SL- what to look for

Old Feb 21, 2016 | 11:59 AM
  #1  
Airmousam's Avatar
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From: East coast
2010 E550 4M P2 Distronic, CLK550 Cab P2
1981 450SL- what to look for

Hey, there is an 81 for sale , 118k miles for around 6k. Have not seen it in person yet. Anything I should look out for with this year? Appreciate any inspection tips!! Thx
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Old Feb 21, 2016 | 06:01 PM
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From: Middle of Nowhere, USA
450SL
Either the year or the model designation is wrong. 1980 is the last year of the 450SL. 1980 450SL is one of the least desirable 107 models. Lowest HP and bound to fail Chrysler designed automatic air conditioning system. Rust is a big problem with 107s. Any visible sign means there is a lot more. At 118K the timing chain service is due if not already done.
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Old Feb 22, 2016 | 11:38 AM
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From: East coast
2010 E550 4M P2 Distronic, CLK550 Cab P2
Thanks for the reply. Yes, I've noticed that I can not find an 81 450, with 80 being the last year. Will keep looking. Thx again

https://nh.craigslist.org/cto/5426490384.html
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Old Feb 24, 2016 | 04:08 PM
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1981 W107 500SL
There are grey imports, so that may be the correct model.
Most parts interchange so probs in that area except maybe US emissions stuff.
I have a 1981 500SL that I bought low mileage....blew white smoke shortly after startup from cold. Replaced valve stem seals [on the vehicle without removing heads
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Old Feb 24, 2016 | 07:06 PM
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From: Middle of Nowhere, USA
450SL
Originally Posted by artificer
There are grey imports, so that may be the correct model.
Most parts interchange so probs in that area except maybe US emissions stuff.
I have a 1981 500SL that I bought low mileage....blew white smoke shortly after startup from cold. Replaced valve stem seals [on the vehicle without removing heads
Last year for the 107.044 production was 1980.......

I will grant that grey market 107 may have the MY year wrong on the paper work. Lots of shenanigans going on back then.
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