For Sale: 1986 Mercedes-Benz 260 in Katwijk, Netherlands

Mercedes-Benz S-Class 260 SE - Timeless luxury in absolutely as-new condition The Mercedes-Benz name is a global byword for quality, innovation and prestige. Ever since the dawn of the 20th century, Mercedes-Benz has set the tone in luxury, safety and engineering. For decades, the S-Class has been the marque's absolute flagship: a model line in which new technologies were often introduced for the very first time, before finding their way to other models. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126, built from 1979 to 1991, is regarded by connoisseurs and enthusiasts as one of the finest S-Classes ever made. This model was renowned for its unrivalled build quality, comfort and reliability. The 260 SE, delivered from the mid-1980s onwards, came with a refined straight-six engine that combined serenity, smoothness and durability to perfection. During this era the W126 was the benchmark in the luxury segment, frequently pressed into service as an executive car, government vehicle and long-distance cruiser. A rare, original example with low mileage This Mercedes-Benz S-Class 260 SE from June 1986 is an exceptionally handsome and original example. With just 106,753 kilometres on the clock and hailing from Germany, this car breathes authenticity and careful stewardship. What makes it all the more special is that, save for the boot lid, it still wears its entire original paint. This underlines not only its originality, but also the conservative and respectful use it enjoyed at the hands of previous owners. The elegant Silver Green Metallic paint sits seamlessly with the timeless character of the S-Class and pairs beautifully with the original cloth interior. This colour combination is quintessential 1980s Mercedes-Benz: stylish, understated and luxurious without being flashy. Condition: genuinely as-new The condition of this Mercedes-Benz 260 SE may rightly be called as-new. Both visually and mechanically, the car is in outstanding order. The interior is fresh, undamaged and still radiates the quality Mercedes-Benz was known for in this period. The bodywork is crisp, the panel gaps are correct and the paintwork has a deep lustre. Mechanically, the car drives just as an S-Class should: smooth, hushed and comfortable. The automatic transmission shifts with finesse and the six-cylinder engine delivers its power effortlessly. This is a classic that is not only wonderful to behold, but also perfectly suited to actually being driven. The W126 is widely considered the last truly over-engineered Mercedes. The generation in which Stuttgart still had no need to cut corners, in which every bolt was torqued as though lives depended on it (which, on the Autobahn, they did). You feel it in the way the doors close. In the weight of the gear selector. In the silence at 130. Some cars you buy because they are rare. Others because they are fast. This one you buy because it is precisely what it ought to be, and nothing more. Forty years of patience deserves an owner who understands that. **Distinctive features** " 2.6 litre six-cylinder petrol engine " Automatic transmission " Silver Green Metallic paint " Original cloth interior " Low mileage: 106,753 km " Almost entirely original paint " Originally delivered in Germany " Comfort-tuned suspension " High-grade finish and materials " Classic Mercedes-Benz build quality Are you looking for an original, stylish and superbly preserved Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126? Then this 260 SE is a unique opportunity. Nick Slinger