The delightful 280SLC was released at the same time
as the 280SL, and in coupe form featured the highly efficient
smaller capacity DOHC six cylinder engine - which in turn
gave this model the honours for being the most fuel efficient
107 ever released.
The release of both the 280SL and SLC models can be seen
as Mercedes response to growing consumer concerns over
the fuel shortages that were occuring at that time.
Even a 5 speed auto was introduced, which further improved
fuel economy, and to many the drop in performance
over its V8 cousins was hardly noticeable.
The
450SL offered 0-100 km/h in 8.5 secs, the
350SL could do
it in 8.8 and the 280 closely followed at 9.5.
These figures were outstanding for 1974, no wonder so
many saved their money and opted for the 280 6 cylinder
models!
