Skip advert
Advertisement

1980 Mercedes 450 SL

The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for

The third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for.

Over the years, Mercedes tried out a number of engines in this model, ranging from a 2.8-litre six-cylinder to a 5.6-litre V8.

Advertisement - Article continues below

This 450 SL was powered by a 4.5-litre V8 – and the performance jump over earlier SLs is massive.

Be warned, though – only fans of the eighties are likely to be won over by the hideous wood veneer dashboard.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Mercedes SL Class

Mercedes SL Class

RRP £110,930Used from £69,990
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,085Avg. savings £3,144 off RRP*Used from £13,990
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £38,050Avg. savings £3,360 off RRP*Used from £29,845
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £24,040Avg. savings £1,535 off RRP*Used from £18,495
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Toyota Yaris: next-gen supermini to embrace hybrid and EV power
Toyota Yaris - front (watermarked)

New Toyota Yaris: next-gen supermini to embrace hybrid and EV power

The new Toyota Yaris will arrive by 2028, and our exclusive images preview how it could look
News
5 May 2026
New Freelander 8: huge SUV is coming to the UK, just don’t call it a Land Rover
Freelander 8 - front

New Freelander 8: huge SUV is coming to the UK, just don’t call it a Land Rover

We get the scoop about a UK sales confirmation of the new joint-venture between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover
News
28 Apr 2026
Nissan Ariya gets a new look and a lower price
New Nissan Ariya facelift - front tracking

Nissan Ariya gets a new look and a lower price

Leaf-inspired styling for Nissan’s flagship EV as it looks to stay competitive
News
6 May 2026