Unveiled at the 1979 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz W126
S-Class was introduced in both standard- and long-wheelbase SEL
form, immediately redefining the benchmark for luxury sedans. A
major technical update arrived in September 1985 with the
introduction of the Type 560, powered by the formidable 5,547-cc
M117 all-aluminum V8, producing up to 300-horsepower. In an era
defined by confidence and economic expansion, the flagship 560 SEL
stood as the ultimate statement of achievement, combining
comprehensive standard equipment with class-leading engineering
integrity. Its restrained authority and unmistakable presence made
it the preferred conveyance of heads of state, corporate leaders,
and influential professionals worldwide, firmly cementing the
W126's status as the definitive luxury automobile of the 1980s.
This 560 SEL authoritative presence is accentuated by its
originally specified Black (040) paintwork with a matching Black
Leather (271) interior. The clientele ordering these new expected
the finest luxuries on offer, and this car exemplifies that with a
steering wheel-mounted airbag, anti-theft/anti-break-in warning
system, automatic climate control, heat-insulating glass, heated
seats front and rear, power reclining rear bench seat, foot rests
in the rear, 11-speaker sound system, and a power sunroof with
tilting function.
The car was purchased new by Luis Palacio through Bill Ussery
Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, Florida, and the clean CARFAX
Vehicle History Report shows it was first registered on 31 May
1988. Under Palacio's care, the car was reported to have been only
serviced at Ussery's dealership by its lead technician, Luis
Gutierrez. By 2020, the 560 had accumulated only 18,612 miles when
it was reacquired by its original selling dealer and entered its
collection. The car was then entered into the current owner's
collection in July 2023, with just five miles added to the
odometer. Today, the car remains a true time capsule example of
Mercedes' flagship sedan. It is furnished with its original owner's
manual, maintenance booklet, warranty policy booklet, user guides,
tools, and more With just 18,692 miles displayed on the odometer at
cataloging, it is surely one of the finest and lowest-mileage
examples currently on offer, and the ideal addition to any
collection seeking first-rate originality.
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