1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL

Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1979, the new W126 S-class was a quantifiable improvement over its W116 predecessor. Lauded by the contemporary motoring press as the 'best car in the world' Car and Driver said 'Its effect is almost druglike, and anyone who appreciates fine automo­biles will want one fix after another.' (Car and Driver July 1987). It was lighter than its forebear and offered an improved ride and sharper handling. Styled by Bruno Sacco, its sleek silhouette hid all-round independent suspension, disc brakes, power-assisted steering and a range of powerful all-alloy V8 engines (later supplemented by more fuel-efficient straight-sixes). Beloved by heads of state, captains of industry and celebrities alike, the W126 remains sought after to this day thanks to its impeccable build quality and timeless lines. Current between 1985 and 1992, the flagship 560 SEL model was powered by a 5547cc SOHC V8 engine that developed an unfussed 296bhp and 336lbft of torque; outputs sufficient to propel the long wheelbase saloon from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and onto 155mph. Despite a price tag of £75,000 (equivalent to over £185,000 in today's money), the luxurious 560 SEL accounted for an impressive 75,071 sales with most being to left-hand drive specification.

Built to order in September 1986, chassis 285757 was originally finished in Diamond Blue Metallic with Blue Velour. Specified with a Becker Mexico stereo, folding front armrest and rear footrests, the 560 SEL displays some c.103,000 miles. Extensively restored c.2016-2021, work included a full bodywork refurbishment by Paintology Ltd of Nottingham, a rejuvenated driver’s seat, factory replacement steering wheel, new interior wood (except cappings), fresh seat adjustment buttons and new instrument cluster bulbs etc. Riding on refurbished and powder-coated alloy wheels, ‘D26 SNS’ also gained new front indicator lenses, rear lights, tinted windows and replacement headlight wiper arms/blades. Mechanically, the 560 SEL has previously benefitted from an automatic gearbox overhaul by Oakdene Automotive Transmissions of Nottingham not to mention attention being paid to its brakes (pads, parking brake shoes, lines), fuel injection, ignition (uprated alternator, spark plugs/leads), fuel (pumps, lines), suspension (front shock absorbers, rear self-levelling hydraulics) and air-conditioning (new condenser radiator, conversion to current refrigerant gas). Said to have been ‘fully serviced by Mercserve and Elm Tree Garage of Nottingham using original parts supplied by Mertrux of Derby’, the Mercedes-Benz has only covered 5,000 miles or so since its rejuvenation and a thorough Lanoguard underbody treatment. This imposing 560 SEL is offered for sale with the V5C Registration Document and a history file.