1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SL

The Mercedes-Benz SL name has always signified a certain level of automotive style and sophistication, and each new generation seems both to define and be defined by its era. Such was the case when the R107 model SL came on the scene in 1971 as a replacement for the popular 230/250/280SL W113 series. The family of models existed with minimal changes until 1989, a remarkable production run for a luxury convertible.

The first-year 1972 cars were dubbed 350SL in keeping with the model designation for Europe, despite actually carrying a 4.5-liter V-8 under the hood. The fuel-injected V-8 featured an overhead cam and delivered 230 horsepower. It was paired with a three-speed automatic, with no manual transmission on offer. Suspension was fully independent and four-wheel disc braking was standard.

Also in 1972, the cars name was revised and 450SL would be the model designation moving forward. Another revision was the way in which horsepower was rated, and the new SAE net meant the 450SLs power was listed at 190 hp. The following year, the 450SL grew large safety bumpers front and rear in keeping with federal regulations. In 1975, emissions requirements reduced output to 180 hp with the addition of a catalytic converter.