The Mercedes-Benz W126 model was the successor to the earlier W116 line and the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz flagship to officially bear the S-Class name meaning Sonderklasse or 'special class'. The model range also introduced many Mercedes-Benz safety innovations, including the first airbag (supplemental restraint systems), seatbelt pre-tensioners and traction control. Six years of development resulted in the W126 model being introduced at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in September 1979, with design work on the coupe beginning immediately after. Compared to its predecessor, the new model had a sleeker, lower profile design, with more aerodynamic qualities than previous models. All were immensely safe and capable machines that were designed to barrel along the fast lane of the German autobahns all day long without a murmur of protest from car or driver. The flagship Mercedes luxury saloon powered by a smooth eight-cylinder 300bhp engine which gave it a top speed of 150mph and achieving 60mph in 7.5 seconds. There is little doubt that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been something of an automotive yardstick for technology and luxury. They have historically represented the very best of the German marque's forward-thinking design and comfort, and the quality of construction allows these cars to maintain a superior presence on the road long after production ended.

This 560 SEL rolled out of Stuttgart in late August 1986. The beautiful deep blue paintwork and cream interior only enhance its inherent elegance, especially with the effortless automatic gearbox. This example remained in the same ownership for almost forty years until its owner passed away last year; it was purchased by our vendor - a friend of the owner - in September 2024 and has been dry-stored ever since. He is now looking to find a new home for this very well-kept car, in the hope that the new owner would take the same care in looking after it. Consigned by Charlie McCeery

Lot details
Year: 1986
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 560 SEL
Registration: D625 WPJ
Chassis No: WDB1260392A267898
Odometer: 55,000

* Two previous owners
* Low-mileage example
* Recent full service