Restoring a classic 1980 Mercedes-Benz model to its former glory is a rewarding endeavor for any car enthusiast. A crucial aspect of this restoration is ensuring the finish matches the original factory color. Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the 1980s were renowned for their sophisticated engineering and elegant aesthetics, and the paint colors played a significant role in their overall appeal. This guide will help you navigate the color options available for your 1980 Mercedes-Benz and understand how to find the perfect touch-up paint to maintain its timeless beauty.
Identifying the correct paint color for your 1980 Mercedes-Benz is the first step in any restoration or touch-up project. Like modern vehicles, 1980 Mercedes-Benz models utilized a basecoat/clearcoat system to achieve a durable and lustrous finish. This two-step process involves applying the pigmented basecoat for color and then a clearcoat layer for protection and shine. To guarantee an accurate color match, you will need to locate your vehicle’s specific paint code.
Typically, the paint code for your 1980 Mercedes-Benz can be found on the vehicle’s identification sticker. This sticker often contains a series of numbers, and the paint code is usually a three or four-digit number. In some instances, the code might be prefixed with “DB,” although this is not always consistent. For detailed examples of Mercedes-Benz paint code locations, you can refer to specialized resources online.
The following table provides a comprehensive list of colors available for 1980 Mercedes-Benz models. This includes various shades, from classic blacks and whites to distinctive yellows, greens, blues, and metallics, reflecting the style and era of these iconic vehicles.
| Chip | Color Codes | Color Description |
|---|---|---|
| 040, 9040 | Black | |
| 0474, 1002, 1660, 474, 660 | Sandgelb | |
| 115, 7-115 | Neutralgrau Metallic | |
| 131, 9131 | Pastellweiss | |
| 1441, DB1441, DBT1441, MB1441, MBT1441 | Kaschmirbeige | |
| 1450 | Milanobeige | |
| 160, 7160, P07 | Steingrau | |
| 1601, 601, DB1601, DBT1601, MB1601, MBT1601 | Aprikosengelb | |
| 1-623, 1623, 623 | Hellelfebein/Hellelfenbein | |
| 1-623, 623 | Light Ivory | |
| 1635 | Postgelb Holland | |
| 1680, 680 | Sun Yellow/Heliosgelb | |
| 1-681, 1681, 681, MB1681, MBT1681 | Weizengelb/Manila Beige | |
| 1-684, 1684, 684 | Pastel Beige/Taigabeige | |
| 172, 7172 | Anthrazitgrau Metallic | |
| 218, 6218 | Lindgruen | |
| 245, 6245 | Gelboliv | |
| 2-482, 482 | Apricot Orange | |
| 2549, 549 | Reinorange | |
| 2550, 550 | Gelborange | |
| 277, 6277 | Meergrun/Meergruen | |
| 306, 5306 | Capriblau | |
| 318, 5-318, 5318 | Ultramarinblau | |
| 328, 5328 | Lkw Blau | |
| 3-504, 504 | English Red | |
| 3535, 535 | Karminrot | |
| 3568, 568 | Signal Red | |
| 3-581, 3581, 581 | Inca Red Metallic | |
| 396 | Blue Metallic | |
| 4371 | Violet | |
| 473, 8-473, 8473 | Champagner Metallic/Champagne Metallic | |
| 476 | Goldbraun | |
| 480, 8-480, 8480 | Manganese Brown Metallic | |
| 516 | Mittelrot | |
| 5-500, 500 | Blue | |
| 5-904, 5904, 904 | Midnight Blue | |
| 5930, 930 | Silberblau Metallic | |
| 5-930, 930 | Silver Blue Metallic | |
| 5-940, 940 | Marine Blue | |
| 6000, 6204 | Patinagruen | |
| 618 | Mimosa Yellow | |
| 678, 9678 | Reinweiss | |
| 681, 6881, 881 | Silberdistel Metallic | |
| 6821, 821 | Saftgruen | |
| 6839, 839 | Lindgruen Hell | |
| 6860, 860, DB860, MB6860, MB860 | Gruen | |
| 6-876, 876 | Cypress Green Metallic | |
| 6-877, 877 | Blue Green Metallic | |
| 6-880, 6880, 880 | Agavengruen/Cactus Green | |
| 6-881, 881 | Thistle Green Metallic | |
| 7177 | Stratus Grey Metallic | |
| 735, 9735 | Astralsilber Metallic | |
| 737, 9-737 | Classic White | |
| 8-479 | Walnut Brown | |
| 877 | Petrol Metallic | |
| 932 | Lapis Blue Metallic |
Two-Step Paint System: Basecoat and Clearcoat
Mercedes-Benz, like many manufacturers, utilized a two-step basecoat/clearcoat paint system for their 1980 models. This system is essential for achieving both the vibrant color and the protective, glossy finish that these vehicles are known for. The first step involves applying the basecoat, which contains the pigment that gives your Mercedes-Benz its distinct color. Following the basecoat, a clearcoat layer is applied. This clearcoat is a transparent paint formulated to protect the base color from environmental elements, UV rays, and minor scratches. It is the clearcoat that provides the deep shine and luster that enhances the overall appearance of your vehicle’s paintwork. Using a two-step system for touch-ups ensures that you are replicating the factory finish as closely as possible, maintaining the original look and protecting your investment.
Customer Experiences with Touch Up Paint for 1980 Mercedes-Benz
Real-world experiences from fellow Mercedes-Benz owners highlight the importance of quality touch-up paint for maintaining these classic vehicles.
Sean M, 1980 Mercedes-Benz SL Class Owner (Arlington, WA)
“When I replaced the rear bumper assembly on my 1980 Mercedes SL Class, I needed to repaint the lower rear valance panel. I used touch-up paint and was impressed with the color match to the original paint. I will definitely be a repeat customer!”
Regi Taylor, 1980 Mercedes-Benz E Class Owner (North Carolina)
“I had some unsightly scrapes under the bumper of my 1980 E Class Mercedes. A can of touch up paint did the trick perfectly. The color match was spot on. For any future paint needs, I will certainly use this company and recommend it to friends.”
Paul S, 1980 Mercedes-Benz SL Class Owner (Euless, TX)
“Finding the right color for older Mercedes Benz cars can be challenging, but the touch-up paint I ordered was a perfect match. Excellent service, secure packaging, and helpful support made the whole process seamless.”
If you are unable to find your specific color listed or require further assistance, expert support is often available. Many suppliers offer color matching services and can help you locate even less common shades for your 1980 Mercedes-Benz model.
Maintaining the original paint finish of your 1980 Mercedes-Benz is key to preserving its value and aesthetic appeal. By identifying your car’s paint code and utilizing the correct basecoat/clearcoat touch-up system, you can ensure that your classic Mercedes continues to turn heads for years to come.
