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 ofstandard features and
factoryoptions 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 datingas 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
