Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sotheby's Santa Monica event, June
24, 2017.
Estimate:
$45,000 - $55,000 US
Described as the "greatest sedan in the world" upon
introduction
Famed 6.3-liter V-8 engine
Solid construction with unnatural speed capabilities
Excellent overall condition
Limited production
Powered by Mercedes-Benz's venerable M 100 6.3-litre engine; the
300 SEL was certainly worthy of the three-pointed star. It was an
engine born and bred on the racetrack, and is still considered one
of the best Mercedes-Benz engines of all time. The 6.3-liter V-8
was able to get the substantial 300 SEL to a top speed of over 130
miles per hour and to 60 miles per hour in less than seven seconds,
an extraordinary feat for a luxury sedan in 1970 and still noted as
respectable today. Adored with the finest luxury fitments of the
time, this was a car for those who were looking for the best in
terms of automotive refinement.
When first placed on the market, enthusiast magazines were anxious
to test what was often billed at the "fastest production sedan ever
built". At least one publication of the day, Road & Track, agreed
with the factory's summation by saying it was "merely the greatest
sedan in the world."
Mercedes-Benz has always been known for their interiors and the
interior of this 6.3 certainly does not disappoint. The thick
leather seats are of a quality that is far superior to anything
that is offered today and they are in excellent condition. The
original wood veneers have aged well and do not look as though they
have been refinished. Many other aspects of the interior remain
original, including the desirable Becker Mexico AM/FM radio with
cassette. Additional equipment includes individual front seats,
center console, factory air conditioning, rear speakers; power
windows, steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Books and the tool
kit are also included with the car.
Over $80,000 (verified by receipts) has been spent on this 6.3 in
recent times, ensuring it is in excellent cosmetic and running
order. Thirty-eight thousand dollars was spent overhauling the air
suspension, injection pump, transmission and much more. All of the
brightwork shines well and the paint has been professionally
detailed, giving it a smooth surface throughout. Extensive service
receipts, a factory tool kit, owner's manual, factory suspension
blocks, original steering wheel and horn pad.
Reports show that approximately 6,500 W109.018 Mercedes-Benz 300
SEL 6.3 Sedans were built during their December 1967 to September
1972 production run; another indication of the exclusive nature of
this finely tuned German masterwork.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/.
