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| Lot number | 44 |
|---|---|
| Hammer value | £1,400 |
| Description | Mercedes-Benz 300SEL Saloon |
| Registration | F128 BBO |
| Year | 1989 |
| Colour | Gold |
| Engine size | 2,962 cc |
| Chassis No. | WDB1260252A432188 |
| Engine No. | 10398122065656 |
Mercedes unveiled its W126 S-Class saloon at the 1979 Frankfurt Motor Show.
A master class in automotive engineering, the new ‘Sonder Klasse’ was the result of some five years planning and development, and the model was built to ensure the German uber-manufacturer’s dominance of the luxury car market.
There were three models in the initial line-up. The 280SE powered by a 2.8-litre in-line six cylinder, and the 380SE and 500SE, powered by 3.8 and 5-litre all-alloy V8s respectively. A long wheel-base version, the SEL, was also available. An SEC coupe was added to the range in 1981.
The S-Class’s four-speed automatic grearbox (also used by Porsche) was equipped with a ‘topographical’ sensor capable of monitoring the car’s position and incline, as well as throttle pitch.. The transmission could then reduce acceleration on a downhill and maintain position without the use of the brake pedal.
From 1986 anti-lock brakes were fitted as standard and the big saloon was subtly redesigned, especially in regard to aerodynamics, to improve both economy and performance. A new 3-litre six-cylinder 300SE/SEL was also introduced. With 185bhp and 192lb ft on tap, the 300 was capable of reaching 60 in approximately 10 seconds with a top speed of 130mph.
This 1989 Mercedes 300 SEL has been owned by the current keeper since February 2007. Since that time, it has been serviced annually, the last service being carried out at 115,000 miles, when the car was also shod with new tyres, the current mileage being 119,500. MOTd until June 2015 and due to have a new tax disc in time for the sale, it looks great in gold with a red velour interior
The quality and engineering of these undervalued cars cannot be overstressed. Comfortable and capable in modern traffic, they are eminently suited to long distance motoring. The long wheelbase version offers even more comfort to the rear seat passengers, or maybe the opportunity to use the vehicle as a wedding car.
