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/
