This 1973 Mercedes Benz 350SLC is the first manual transmission-equipped and rally-prepped example we’ve seen. These early, small V8 C107 coupes were offered with a 4-speed stickshift in Europe, though they’re relatively rare compared to automatic cars. Claimed to have been successfully campaigned in historic events over the past three years, stage use probably accounts for only a small percentage of its 71k kilometers (44k miles). Find it here at Cult Cars in Witten, Germany for 28,980 euros (~$33k today).

​The car sits a bit strange with gravel stance and tarmac compound tires, but we bet it’d look great with some narrower, taller rubber on its bundt wheels—three sets for different surfaces are included. Panels and paint are surprisingly good for an active rally car, and this mild livery and silver paint work well together—black plastic fender flares are nicely judged as well. We’re a bit confused by the Nurburgring sticker on the trunklid, but love the idea of this thing wallowing through Karussell.

​Carpeting and a largely unmodified factory dash give the cabin a more comfortable vibe than might be expected, though looking around at custom lightweight door cards, deep one-piece buckets, deleted rear seat and padded roll cage it’s clear that this is still a focused build. A Brantz rally computer sits in front of the co-driver, and the three-pointed star at the center of the suede-covered wheel with dead-ahead indicator is a nice touch. Note the hydraulic handbrake lever and electrical cutoff switch as well.

​Up front, MB’s SOHC M116 V8 looks completely stock including the big OEM air cleaner housing and snorkel. 200 HP isn’t a huge number, but the engine’s decidedly oversquare design (92mm bore and 66mm stroke) makes for a revvy delivery and enjoyable top end—mated to a 4-speed we bet it’s a lot of fun to hustle. A limited-slip differential is also mentioned.

​A long wheelbase luxury coupe might not be the most obvious platform for a rally car, but that’s exactly what makes these things so cool. We only wish there were a few action shots included–some knobblys would be nice, too.