1986 Mercedes 300 SE Automatic

Description

• AT AUCTION – Please click HERE
• W126 Second series S-Class
• 3.0 litre Automatic
• Just three former keepers
• Previous owner had the car for over 20 years

The Mercedes S-Class has characterised the pinnacle of automotive competence. This flagship of the Mercedes range is the model that gets the cutting-edge tech first, the greatest refinement and always comes with plentiful performance.

Background and history

The Mercedes W126 S-Class made its debut in 1979. The early flavours were 280 SE, 380 SE/SEL and 500 SE/SEL. A facelift arrived autumn 1985. Amongst other features, it came with new bumpers and valances and 15-inch wheels replacing the 14-inch ones. Much more significant was the new 3.0 litre 300 SE with M103 engine.

• First registered 24 February 1986
• Only three former keepers
• Two keys
• A nice bundle of paperwork and history comes with this Mercedes

Mechanicals

The S-Class came packed with technology that sometimes took a decade to trickle down and become standard on mainstream models.

• 3.0 litre straight six engine
• 178 bhp
• CIS-E continuous fuel injection
• Four speed automatic
• Power steering
• Alloy wheels
• ABS
• Switchable S/E auto box with ‘hill hold’

The second series Mercedes S-Class came with the new M103 straight six engine. It has a crossflow cylinder head with an inclination to the right, for lower bonnet height and better weight distribution. It has a single overhead cam with two valves per cylinder. This engine received several updates over its lifetime one being a change from a spherical combustion chamber to a heart shaped combustion chamber producing more power and better fuel economy.

Outside

The W126 design team was led by Mercedes-Benz’s chief designer Bruno Sacco. Their brief was to produce added aerodynamic shape, remove weight but retain the unmistakable S-Class design. Aerodynamic drag was reduced by reshaping of the front end and bumper, along with burying the wipers underneath the bonnet for improving airflow. Reducing the weight was achieved with the extensive use of high-strength low-alloy steel and polyurethane deformable material for bumpers and side claddings. Packed with innovation but every inch an S-Class.

• The 300 SE had a recent full respray and the Blue-Green Metallic paintwork looks good
• New nearside front wing fitted
• Tiny dent shown on the wing (see photo gallery) that our vendor suspects will likely be an easy fix for a dent repair specialist
• Light grey body mouldings
• Matching light grey bumpers with chrome inserts
• Period correct amber indicator lenses
• All the bright work lamps and glass look to be in good condition

The whole package is topped off with that imposing front grille with the legendary three-pointed star.

Inside

• Velour cloth seats
• Polished wood inserts
• Four spoke steering wheel
• Centre arm rests
• Rear cargo nets
• Black carpet with over mats
• Electric windows and mirrors
• Alarm fitted that comes with three fobs

Our vendor has shown in the images the usual were and tear marks common in a classic of this period, even an S-Class Mercedes. The side skirt of the front seat base has a tear in it, which looks very repairable. The vendor states he has been quoted £80 for the repair. The remainder of the interior looks well preserved and a full set of seat covers will be supplied with the car.

Then there is that idiosyncratic lever to the right of the steering wheel, which could double as an ejector seat lever or parachute ripcord. Don’t worry, it’s neither of course. It is the Germans attempt at humour.

Owner’s comment:

“Drives beautifully, I tried a few before buying – this one drove the best. Purchased in London and driven home over 200 miles without any concern.”

Summary

The S-Class was the best car in the world when it was introduced, and the S-Class is still both imposing and impressive today.

If you are looking for a modern-ish, useable classic car that has a delightful mixture of both retro and cool about it, then this Mercedes 300 SE Auto is perfect.

What a bargain this is as well.

Vehicle Location: Preston, Lancashire PR1 – it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendors.

Would like to arrange a viewing or have a question about this Mercedes 300 SE? Please contact us at team@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf.

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Tedious but it’s vital you read this, please.

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