1980 Mercedes-Benz 450SL Convertible 2-Door 4.5L - Gorgeous

I've had this Mercedes for approximately twenty years. During that period of time I have driven it with confidence - at one time I would have taken a trip to Canada with little fear of any problem. Although the vehicle has been seldom driven in the several five years, I have cranked and run it each and every month. Here are more particulars:
1. I had a minor wreck in the vehicle several years ago, after which the hood, front fenders, front bumper, etc., were repaired or replaced. The motor was not damaged. At that time I had the entire vehicle repainted its original color, a light cream. The paint job now is in very good condition, with only a few pecks. The car is stunningly beautiful when it is clean.
2. This past week I replaced the battery ($135), drove the car from its storage area some twenty-five miles away, and filled the tank with fresh non-ethanol gasoline. It drove fine except that the brakes do have an apparent problem (described herein).
3. The motor and drive train are in very good condition. The motor cranks and runs smoothly, the transmission shifts flawlessly. It does not smoke and did not use any oil when I was driving it regularly.
4. The two "major" defects are the brakes and (possibly) the fuel pump. Last week when I was driving around Vicksburg the brakes gradually went. When I got home I had just enough pedal to stop. The master cylinder is full, and I see no evidence of leakage at the wheel cylinders. Perhaps all that is required is a simple master cylinder overhaul. Additionally, when I tried to start the engine this morning the engine turned fine, but would not start. I could not hear the fuel pump "whine" when I placed the ignition switch in the "on" position, so I suspect either the wiring to the pump has failed, or the pump motor has failed.
5. Other known defects include: a) Since the car has been driven very little since the tires were replaced, the tires look like new, but they are quite old and may need replacing before running at highway speeds, 2) The odometer works sometimes, sometimes not. It's showing about 126,000 miles, but may have an additional 5,000 miles maximum, since I have driven it very little in the past several years. 3) The radio antenna extends automatically but sometimes hangs up, 4) The radio is a replacement. I may have the original someplace and will attempt to locate it if the buyer wants it, 5) The driver-side leather seat has some small holes and a seam failure - see photo, 6) A small disc on the speedometer needle has fallen off - see photo. This doesn't affect anything but appearance,, 7) The passenger-side door sometimes requires opening from the inside - perhaps a lock problem, 8) The air conditioner needs to be charged with freon, 9) The fuel gage works intermittently, 10) There are probably more minor defects, but I can't think of any right now.
In summary, this is a beautiful car with an excellent body and a very good engine and transmission. With some minor TLC it can serve a new owner with pride and distinction for years to come.

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