Original Factory Colors
Classic Mercedes-Benz 450 SL Paint Colors & Factory Codes (1973–1980)
Every original factory paint color offered on the classic Mercedes-Benz 450 SL (1973–1980), with official manufacturer paint codes, hex approximations, and rarity notes. Use the paint code to order a color-matched sample from a restoration supplier.
★ Rare / Desirable Colors
★ Rare
Carnelian Red
514
#7a1f1f
1973–1975
Solid deep red (DB 514), a darker early-period red phased out mid-decade.
Standard Colors
Signal Red
568
#a51c20
1973–1980
Solid bright red (DB 568), an iconic Mercedes color offered across the full R107 run.
Medium Red
516
#9e2222
1975–1979
Solid red (DB 516) offered in the second half of the 1970s.
About these colors:
Color names, factory paint codes, and production years are cross-referenced from established
marque references and owner registries. Hex codes are approximate digital representations of
factory paint — vintage automotive paint was never defined as a hex value, and original enamel
fades over time. True paint colors depend on age, sun exposure, refinishing history, and
production batch variation. For an accurate match, always mix by the factory paint code — not
by the on-screen swatch — and verify against an original paint chip or a professional
color-matched sample before purchasing paint for a restoration.