Paul is another new author on the site and as you can tell his taste matches ours perfectly. Welcome aboard Paul!
All of a sudden, a glut of mint condition W126 have cropped up on eBay. Spanning a production run from 1979 through 1992, these cars have attained a cult like status and clean examples are becoming more difficult to find as years pass. Here are two different models, each with around 60,000 miles on the clock. This equates to barely run in when it comes to what could be considered the most revered of all S Classes.
1989 Mercedes-Benz 300SE
Introduced in 1985, the 300SE offered the smooth, venerable M103 single cam inline-six in the short wheelbase package. While this could be considered the entry level point of the S class range at the time, it is an optimal choice for those wanting a somewhat smaller, more efficient package while still offering all the bells and whistles that big Benzes are known for. This particular example comes with a bevy of receipts, key for anyone considering one of these young classics.
The seller states:
The car has 60,000 miles and looks and drives like it has 10,000 miles. The paint is stunning. The interior leather is soft and supple. Smells rich and new.
The ivory over parchment leather color combination may not be optimal, there is no denying that this is a car that could last someone well into the next decade.
1987 Mercedes-Benz 420SEL
This particular S class represents the last year for the W126 sedan. This 420SEL is the long wheelbase model with the 4.2 liter V8, pumping out 221 horsepower in US catalyst guise. The navy over blue leather is a more conservative color choice, however, the V8 engine will undoubtedly cost more to run in the long-term. This can be attributed to not only fuel economy but maintenance items such as the timing chains. If these are not looked after as needed they can prove to be a headache, both mechanically and financially.
The seller has this to say:
This Magnificent Low Mileage 420 SEL Is Simply Stunning In Every Detail. An Immaculate One Owner Vehicle That Is Sure To Please. This Beautiful Collector’s Dream Car Has Been Driven Only 2,000 Miles Per Year Since Purchased New! A Local New Car Trade In That Comes Fully Equipped With All Power Including 4.2 Liter Fuel Injected V-8 Engine, 4-Speed Automatic Transmission, Four Wheel Disc-Brakes, Anti-Locking Braking System, Fully Independent Suspension, Power Sliding Sunroof, Wood Interior Trim, Leather Seating, Dual Power Seats With Drivers & Passengers Seat Memory, Electronically Ajustable Front Seat Headrest, Climate Controlled Air Conditioning, High Performance Sound System AM/FM/Cassette Audio System With Power Antenna Mast, Power Telescopic Steering Wheel, Cruise Control, Power Windows And Locks, Power Passenger Side Mirror, Visor Vanity Mirrors, Fog Lamps, Anti-Theft Alarm System, And 15″ Forged Alloy Wheels.
These are both very splendid W126 sedans. The vast amount of chrome, wood and leather in these cars takes a beating over the years and these two examples seem to have been well cared for. On the other hand, they are not garage queens which is a good thing, as they have gotten the regular exercise they have needed. Of the two, I am particularly fond of the short wheelbase SE model, as they are rarer in the US and a bit easier to handle around town due to the shorter length. You don’t give up much in space and the bulletproof Mercedes inline six is guaranteed to crest a quarter of a million miles if cared for properly.
– Paul
