This is a wonderful example of a very early production 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350SL (titled as a 1972) in the classic colors of Signal Red with Black MB Tex upholstery.  Covering a mere 67k miles from new, this is in overall very nice condition.  This is the 1,932 SL produced worldwide and has many features that set it apart.  The 350SL has the same 4.5-liter engine as the 450SL, but was labeled as such for only the first year and has many unique features when compared to the second year 450SL.

This SL drives very well and has been very well maintained. This SL is complete with its tool roll and tools, owner’s manual, service manual, copy of the Factory Data Card, and original sales brochure.  The service history file is extensive and comes with the car.  The last owner added an aftermarket windscreen, which is a terrific feature.  This is a long-time Florida car that has been in Arizona for the past four years.

The car is finished in Signal Red (568H) and features a color-matched removable hardtop with a heated rear window as well as a black convertible canvas soft top that is in excellent condition. Equipment includes fog lights, dual chrome mirror caps, and dual exhaust outlets. The car was repainted under previous ownership and is great for a classic driver and can be shown at regional shows.

Recent refurbishment work included replacing the fuel pressure regulator, alternator, driver’s window mechanism, headlights, exhaust system, front shocks, steering linkage, rear axle seals, tires, soft-top window seals, engine and subframe mounts, and assorted air conditioning components. These are all essential long-term maintenance items that make the driving experience tight and nimble with no unwanted noises.

The cabin features bucket seats trimmed in black MB-Tex that is in overall nice condition.  The carpeting is the original black carpeting in excellent overall condition with little to no wear and the normal fading.   Amenities include manual wind-up windows, an aftermarket stereo head unit, and air conditioning.  The driver’s seat bottom pad was replaced in December 2021 and the seatbelts and sun visors were refurbished.  At one point, the center console was replaced with a later, electric window model console, leaving it with two empty holes for the switches that have been covered over.

The air conditioning control knob, AC compressor, and receiver drier were replaced in 2024, and the system was charged with R134a refrigerant, and the heater core has been bypassed.  The air conditioning functions well, even in our 100-degree weather in Springtime here in Phoenix.

The 4.5-liter M117 V8 features Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection, and work performed in December 2021 included replacing the exhaust system, engine mounts, and ignition points. Service in 2024 consisted of an oil change, installing an updated alternator and voltage regulator, repairing the positive battery cable, and replacing the battery and fuel pressure regulator. Steel 14″ wheels wear chrome covers with body-color centers and are wrapped in 205/70 Hankook Kinergy ST tires with 2021 date codes. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel disc brakes. Work under current ownership included replacing the front shocks along with the steering stabilizer and linkage, drag links, tie-rod assemblies, and the front and rear subframe mounts.  Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission. The transmission and differential mounts were replaced along with the rear axle seals in December 2021, and the fluids were changed at that time.

We are offering this at a very strong value.  Hagerty has a No. 2 example at $40,800, which is where we would rate this 350SL.  See the value here: 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SL Base | Hagerty Valuation Tools

Decoding the data plate above reveals the following options:

• 246 – Heated Rear Window Pane
• 467 – Central locking & instruments with English lettering
• 491 – US Market
• 513 – Becker Europa Stereo
• 580 – Behr air conditioning
• 568H – Signal Red paint

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire and early 350SL, with low miles and in overall very nice condition.  This is titled in Arizona as a 1972, reflecting when it was sold new.

For more information and details, please call or text Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or email us at sales@classicpromenade.com.  This 350SL is available for inspection at our showroom in Phoenix.  We are pleased to coordinate inspections, and we help coordinate shipping worldwide. We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing