NO RESERVE, very early SLC, built December 1972

Description for Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 1973

Well, I guess I'm throwing in the towel on this one.

It's a cool car. Very early production SLC. Built December 1972. Serial number is 000688, which I believe is the 688th one built. Has the early details; small side mirrors, solid chrome grill star (not the plastic with stainless overlay), solid lifters, no air pump or catalytic, etc.
I bought it not running, supposedly in good shape but with rodent damaged wiring. I repaired the wiring, removed and cleaned the gas tank, put in a new Mercedes gas tank strainer, new fuel pump and filter, had the injectors professionally cleaned and flow tested, new master cylinder, new battery, among other items. I got it running but it ran rough. I adjusted the valves (the early cars have solid lifters) and noticed a cam lobe was heavily worn on one cylinder. Checked compression and had low compression on that cylinder. And I noticed one of the allen head bolts holding the cam in place was broken off where the worn lobe was. (I did find the broken head sitting at the bottom of the head). So, long story not so short; at the least it needs a cam.

IT IS CURRENTLY NOT RUNNING.

Mileage is shown as 132xxx but I do not believe that is the style speedometer that was used in 1973 so I would say total actual mileage is unknown.

The back glass is cracked but the buyer is welcome to cut out a good glass from a parts car I have. The paint looks good from 10 feet but has various imperfections included some missing paint on the roof. Interior is decent but needs to be cleaned. Dash pad is cracked and has the carpet cover over it.

The air cleaner along with two extra matching polished bundt wheels are in the trunk. The tires all match and have good tread but are older. No bumpers or front turn signals.

The trunk torsion bar springs were disconnected when I got it and still are. They are present but not in position.

In my mind its worth saving. No sunroof - would be a great start on a vintage racer or rally car. I have a Texas title in my name.

It appears to be a long time Texas car - it has a little surface rust and a few rust bubbles on the rear deck lid but overall pretty rust free.

You are welcome and encouraged to come see it if you'd like. Message me to arrange that.

No reserve - you are bidding to win.

$500 deposit to be paid with 24 hours of the end of the auction with the remainder to be paid within 72 hours unless other arrangements are made. Must be picked up within 14 days unless other arrangements are made.