Mercedes-Benz 380SE Saloon

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A monument to Teutonic engineering excellence, the Mercedes-Benz S Class was widely acclaimed as the Best Car in the World in the 1970s and '80s.

Built like the proverbial brick outhouse, no self respecting African dictator would be seen in anything less. Lighter, sleeker and more fuel efficient than the outgoing W116 models, the Bruno Sacco-designed W126 S Class ran from 1979 to 1991, with a minor styling uplift and new engine options from 1986.

Towards the top of the range was the mighty 3.8-litre V8 which produced 201bhp and 232lb/ft of torque, sufficient to propel it to a top speed nudging 130mph and cover the 0-60mph dash in 9.3secs. Not bad for a vehicle of its imposing size and weight. Replaced in 1986 by a more powerful unit stretched to 4.2-litres, they were all blessed with the same turbine smoothness and effortless power delivery.

This 1985 example has had just two former keepers. There are three stamps in the book and an old MOT showing that by 2005 it had an indicated 25,041 miles on the clock. The total recorded mileage is still under 55,000, a figure which the vendor believes to be genuine, although sadly does not have sufficient paperwork to confirm.

An impressive looking car, the vendor intends to get a fresh MOT in time for the sale, the car being offered at no reserve. 

CATALOGUE AMENDMENT - No MoT, not completed in time for sale.