1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC Coupe

Karl Wilfert and his body development team developed the concept for an SL-based coupe. This proved beneficial when production approval was given in spring 1969 for such a...

Karl Wilfert and his body development team developed the concept for an SL-based coupe. This proved beneficial when production approval was given in spring 1969 for such a model, as its styling was mostly established; it simply needed refinement to better align with the nearly finished SL. The SLC (read "SL C" on the trunk badge) looked very much like its soft-top sibling, up to the end of the doors, the 14.2-inch stretch in wheelbase that was required to add a habitable rear seat.

The SLC would prove itself exceedingly well-rounded, being surprisingly capable in competition with AMG-modified examples raced in the European Touring Car Championship, and factory-prepped SLCs tackling international rallies, including the 1979 and 1980 World Rally Championships.

The legacy of this formidable coupe is presented here with less than 39,000 miles on the odometer after being in the long term care of a well known exotic car dealer and Mercedes specialist. Complete with books, records and tools.