The Mercedes 450SEL 6.9 was nearly a forbidden fruit for American buyers. Production could not match the demand in Europe, but at the behest of potential customers, American dealerships had no choice but to import the 450SEL 6.9. Only 500 examples would make their way into the U.S. per year; the rest would remain in Europe. The new 6.9 was the spiritual successor to the 300SEL 6.3, a brutish German muscle car in sheep's clothing, and it upheld its legacy splendidly. The hand-built 6.9-liter V8 engine produced 250 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Sending power through a reinforced 3-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, the 450SEL 6.9 would reach a top speed of 133 miles per hour, making it the fasted sedan in the world. While it was visually similar to the normal SE, the 6.9L was designed as Mercedes' flagship vehicle and was a technical masterpiece using dry-sump lubrication and riding on hydropneumatic suspension.
This 1977 Mercedes Benz 450SEL 6.9 is an excellent example of the highest-end offering available at the time it was produced. Finished in Topaz Brown over a flawless tan interior, it has a classic and understated look that epitomizes the late 1970s. It has had just one owner from new and shows 111,573 original miles. The 6.9L V8 performs beautifully and propels the car forward with a smooth urgency one would expect of a high-end autobahn tourer. The hydropneumatic suspension works as designed and keeps the large luxury sedan surprisingly flat even during aggressive turns. The effect is an agile driving experience unheard of in luxury sedans at the time. This 450SEL is turn-key and ready for the open road ahead.
