Mercedes-Benz W116 450 SEL 6.9 2nd hand (1978)

Vehicle description

The most expensive S-Class model of the seventies was the 450 SEL 6.9 of the 116 series. With the generosity of the almost 7.0-litre displacement, Mercedes-Benz advanced into American dimensions. A Mercedes-Benz has never again had such a high displacement and torque. The 450 SEL 6.9 was a refined reminiscence of the legendary 300 SEL 6.3 of the predecessor series. While in the old 6.3 of the W 109 model series a complicated air suspension ensured comfort and driving safety, the Stuttgart-based company did not let itself be lumped in the new top model of the 116 series and installed hydropneumatics – similar to that used by Citroën. From 1975 to 1980, a total of just over 7,300 units of the 450 SEL 6.9 rolled off the production line.

A Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 from the 116 model series can now be purchased in this auction: This vehicle with the chassis number 11603612004483 is a year of construction 1978, which comes from German first registration. The story is as follows: A certain Prof. Dr. med. bought this 450 SEL 6.9 in February 1978 and then re-registered the car in April 1984 to his hospital in Bad Füssing. In August 1987, the car was then registered to the partner, who drove this Mercedes-Benz but only 2 months – after that it was put away due to a slight rear damage and deregistered. 1 set of vehicle keys is enclosed with the W 116, the TÜV is still done before the handover to the future owner, an H-approval already ennobles this 450 SEL 6.9. Matching numbers are given according to the owner statements.

Safety shaped the design of the W 116, the 6.9 looks massive with cast lights, a lot of chrome emphasizes the Mercedes elegance. A few years ago, according to the seller, this 450 SEL was rediscovered after a long service life and repaired, painted and thus brought back to life. For the repainting, it was decided to paint the entire car completely – this was done in the original silver colour. Defects in the exterior are not noticeable according to the owner, the body has no rust and all attachments to the vehicle are fully preserved and in perfect condition. Modifications deviating from the original condition are not recognizable.

So-called Mercedes-Benz baroque rims, which are in perfect condition, together with tyres in good condition with sufficient tread, ensure the external appearance of this 450 SEL. Deficits in the area of the braking system or the chassis are not to be listed according to the seller's information. Worth mentioning is the replacement of the balancing balls of the hydropneumatics, so that it works properly again.

Root veneer, dark blue leather and plenty of space can be taken from the interior of this Mercedes-Benz at first sight. Cracks are to be noted in the dashboard, the wood veneers are partly cracked – otherwise the entire interior can be attested to a well-kept and well-preserved condition without missing parts. In addition to power steering, central locking and air conditioning, electric windows, cruise control and a contemporary radio are also on board this 450 SEL 6.9. All equipment elements as well as all instruments, displays and switches can be attributed a problem-free function.

Due to the history of the previous owners and the service life of this W 116, the mileage of 125,950 is credible according to the current owner. In addition, the all-round healthy overall condition speaks for this mileage. According to the seller, a checkbook for the car is no longer available.

The V8 engine has a whopping 6.9 liters in the bow: 286 hp provide propulsion, the gears are engaged via a 4-speed automatic. Defects in the field of technology are not to be noted, a new service has only recently been completed. According to seller statements, upcoming work cannot be listed at the moment.

The underbody condition of this Mercedes-Benz can be found in healthy substance. This displacement giant from S-Class fulfills every dream of opulence, innovative spirit and authority. Already when closing the full slamming doors, there is a feeling of security in this car. This model is supported on the one hand by the rarity of the engine, on the other hand by the quiet and unagitated elegance, which is caused by the discreet paint color.

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