The Mercedes-Benz R107 is best known as a relaxed grand tourer, but this 1976 450SL takes a very different approach. Its original German V8 has been replaced with a Chevrolet LS1, giving the elegant roadster the soundtrack and performance character of an American muscle car.
Currently offered by Bullet Motorsports, the modified SL combines classic Mercedes styling with a far newer powertrain. The seller describes it as a usable weekend car rather than a pristine showpiece, which may suit buyers who would rather drive their classics than worry about preserving them.
Its pearl-white body, 17-inch Penta-style wheels, and color-matched removable hardtop preserve much of the R107’s familiar appearance. Opening the hood reveals the major departure: an LS-series V8 installed with updated brackets, a cold-air intake, and modern wiring.
The conversion appears to deliver exactly what many engine-swap enthusiasts want from an LS-powered classic. It starts easily, cruises quietly, and has enough power to spin the rear tires without turning the Mercedes into an unruly track-focused build.
An LS1 Replaces the Original Mercedes V8
The 450SL originally left the factory with Mercedes-Benz’s 4.5-liter V8, an engine known for durability but not especially dramatic performance. This car instead uses an LS1, the all-aluminum V8 most closely associated with late-1990s and early-2000s Chevrolet performance models.
Bullet Motorsports does not provide a confirmed horsepower figure in its video, although a stock LS1 would represent a substantial performance upgrade over the original engine. The presenter says the engine runs well and praises the installation’s bracketry, intake system, and wiring.
The swap retains the Mercedes-style automatic shifter, helping the cabin maintain a mostly period-correct appearance. The exact transmission was not identified during the walkaround, although it reportedly shifts smoothly and allows the driver to select lower gears manually.
Built as a Driver, Not a Show Car
The seller rates the car at 6.5 out of 10 overall while giving the powertrain a perfect score. That assessment reflects several cosmetic imperfections, including paint runs, aging trim, bumper wear, and the general fit and finish expected from a vehicle approaching 50 years old.
Bullet Motorsports describes the SL as a “10-footer,” meaning it presents well from a short distance but is unlikely to satisfy buyers searching for concours-level bodywork. The pearl-white paint still looks striking in the Florida sun, while the upgraded wheels give the roadster a slightly more aggressive stance.
Inside, the seats and door panels appear to be in good condition, and the dashboard presents well. The steering-wheel horn pad is deteriorating, one sun visor reportedly falls down, and the horn itself does not work.
Both Roof Options Are Included
Like other R107 SLs, this example offers both open-air driving and better protection from the elements. It comes with a matching removable hardtop as well as a folding black soft top stored beneath the rear deck.
The fabric roof is described as being in generally good condition, although the plastic rear window shows staining and wear. A small tear was also noted near the upper section, suggesting that some refurbishment may eventually be required.
The sale includes a hardtop rolling stand, spare taillights, black headlight surrounds, an extra wheel, tools, and various latches and components. An owner’s manual is also said to accompany the car.
Some Features Still Need Attention
Most of the original gauges still function, including the speedometer, oil-pressure gauge, temperature gauge, and fuel gauge. The odometer does not work, which the seller suggests may be related to adapting the original instrumentation to the replacement transmission.
The power windows, windshield wipers, turn signals, and aftermarket stereo are operational. However, the power antenna does not function, and the air-conditioning system is missing its underhood compressor.
That leaves room for the next owner to install a modern climate-control setup, particularly if the car will remain in a hot-weather state. None of the disclosed faults appear to prevent the SL from being driven, although prospective buyers would need to consider the unknown true mileage.
A Classic Mercedes With Corvette Character
On the road, the converted Mercedes reportedly steers and brakes well while remaining smooth over rough pavement. The LS1 stays relatively quiet during normal cruising, yet its Chevrolet roots become obvious when the throttle is opened.
This is not a factory-correct R107 for the preservation-minded collector. It is instead a distinctive restomod that pairs one of Mercedes-Benz’s most recognizable roadster designs with a widely supported American V8, creating an unusual weekend cruiser with classic looks and accessible mechanical hardware.