Vehicle Description
Mercedes-Benz, known for its precision engineering and opulent
designs, created the 450 SEL 6.9 as a flagship model within the
W116 S-Class series. This model stood out in the 1970s as an
unexpected champion of speed and luxury, rivaling and often
surpassing many renowned sports cars of the era, outpacing the
Ferrari 308 GTB by half a second and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage by
0.3 seconds in the 0-60 mph sprint, a testament to its advanced
engineering. Yet, its prowess extended far beyond mere speed.
Distinguished by its lavish all-leather interior, exquisite walnut
veneer wood dash, and an array of luxurious amenities including
heated front and rear seats, automatic climate control, and a
premium Becker sound system, the 450 SEL 6.9 redefined automotive
luxury. Holding the coveted title of the quickest 4-door sedan for
several years, it was a symbol of engineering excellence and
unmatched comfort. Only in 1987 was its reign challenged with the
arrival of the Mercedes-Benz 300E AMG Hammer, marking the end of an
era of unparalleled performance and sophistication. The 450 SEL 6.9
utilized a substantially large 6.8 Litre dry-sump M100 V-8 engine,
producing 285 brake horsepower. Each engine was meticulously
hand-assembled at the factory, bench-tested for nearly 4.5 hours
before installation. Notably, the crankshaft, connecting rods, and
pistons were all forged steel for exceptional durability. These
engines were built to last, propelling the vehicle to an impressive
top speed of 150mph. Remarkably, this was achieved by a car
weighing over 4,400 lbs. Additionally, the 450 SEL 6.9 was the
world's first passenger car to be equipped with a modern form of
ABS, an electronic four-wheel multi-channel anti-lock braking
system from Bosch. The 450 SEL was known by several names,
including the S-Class and the W116. In the North American market,
the 450 SEL 6.9 was simply called the 6.9, featuring the model's
name on the right side of the trunk lid. The 6.9 is less commonly
referred to as "The Tank" due to its advanced hydropneumatic
self-leveling suspension. This system, like those used in modern
tanks and large military vehicles, provided a dynamic and
high-capacity suspension for superior ride quality on various
surfaces. Notably, unlike other S-class models, the 6.9 received
the full system for both front and rear suspension. This particular
1979 450 SEL 6.9 is the best-preserved example we have ever seen.
The body is crisp, beautifully straight, and exhibits the precision
quality that defines Mercedes-Benz cars of the era. The original
Light Ivory (623H) paint remains impeccably preserved, exhibiting
no signs of discoloration or fading. Emphasizing the vehicle's
pristine condition, traces of the factory-applied Cosmoline
undercarriage coating are still evident. The engine bay mirrors
this preservation with its immaculate cleanliness, further
underscored by the presence of the OEM Mercedes-Benz battery,
thoughtfully chosen by the previous owners when replacement was
required. The M100 engine provides endless power, impressive
throttle response, and hums like a well-tuned instrument. For
aesthetic enhancements, the previous owner also equipped the car
with the more desirable and stylish European headlamps, likely
installed when new as this was a common upgrade at the time, making
it stand out from other US spec models. Notably, the odometer reads
a little over 46,000 miles, and with the reliability of the
hand-built M100 engine, it has only just begun its journey. The
theme of well-kept preservation continues into the interior of this
6.9, with the Bamboo-colored leather upholstery showing no signs of
wear. All materials in the cabin appear original throughout and are
in superb condition, including the deep-pile carpets, wood trim and
Mercedes branded Coco floor mats reflecting this car's cherished
existence. When the car was originally purchased, it came equipped
with a plethora of standard features and factory options including
electric power windows, a heated rear windshield, a Becker Mexico
radio, two power antennas (one specifically for the Motorola CB
radio installed at the time of purchase), auto climate control, an
electric sliding roof, heated front seats, and the exceptionally
rare feature of a heated rear bench. The car boasts five brand-new
speed-rated tires mounted on its original Bundt alloy wheels.
Lastly, the owner will receive the original Mercedes-Benz owner's
manual, protecto plate, service book, and some service paperwork
dating as far back as 1980. The 450 SEL 6.9 is considered a
milestone in Mercedes-Benz history, revered for its technological
innovation and luxury. Its legacy as a pioneering "hot rod"
continues to influence modern AMG sedans. As collector's items,
these vehicles are increasingly sought after, with this example
standing out as one of the finest, most original, and correct
examples available today. Whether on display at a concours or on
the road experiencing the thrill of a genuine German autobahn
cruiser, the 450 SEL 6.9 remains an iconic symbol of automotive
excellence. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7726-1979-mercedes-benz-450sel-6-9-sedan/
