Limited-Production “Homologation” Car for FIA Rally Eligibility

1981 Mercedes-Benz 500 SLC — Homologation
VIN: WDB10702612002181 · Engine: 117960 12 002723 · Transmission: 02 047968
Original Finish: Manganese Brown Metallic (480O)
Original Interior: Velour Cream (935)
Order No. 0-221 65643
Ordered: Cologne, Germany
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The Homologation Story:
To compete in FIA-sanctioned international rally racing, a manufacturer had to prove a minimum number of road-legal production cars existed — a process called homologation. For the 500 SLC, that threshold was 1,000 units.

Mercedes-Benz complied, building purpose-specific cars that carried meaningful engineering upgrades over the standard SLC: an aluminum-block 5.0-liter V-8 saving over 200 lbs versus the iron-block predecessor, aluminum hood and deck lid for further weight reduction, an aluminum engine air-cleaner housing, and integrated front and rear spoilers calibrated to keep the car planted at its 142-mph top speed. The result was a homologation-spec road car that was genuinely lighter and faster than what came before — built to satisfy a rulebook, but also legitimately better for it.

Of the 1,299 total 500 SLCs produced, just 483 were built in 1981 — the final and rarest model year. This car is one of them.
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The Car:
Imported in period by Trans Atlantic Motors as a gray-market example, this 500 SLC has spent its life in Texas, with accompanying records dating to 1986. Today, it presents in Red over cream parchment leather upholstery. The odometer shows 32,366 miles.

Recovered from over a decade of static storage, the car was inspected and returned to running and driving condition in August 2023 — work included a new battery, full fluid and filter service, radiator cap, washer pump, steering coupling, tie rods, and alignment, representing over $5,000 invested.

Follow-up May 2025 service: new hood insulation pad, oil and filter change, new Ansa muffler, A/C recharge, window switch replacement, and full detail. Note: a thorough inspection and additional mechanical service is recommended before regular use.
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Factory Options:
Electrically operated sliding roof · ABS · Automatic climate control · Becker Mexico Cassette stereo · Automatic antenna · Multi-contour front left seat · Folding front armrest · Heated front seats (L & R) · Right-side exterior mirror · Heat-insulating glass all around · Headlamp wiper/washer
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Accompaniments:
Original owner's manual, maintenance booklet, Pirelli tire warranty, tool kit, jack, spare tire, and emergency accessories.
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