This 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL was delivered new in July 1985 and is finished in Smoke Silver Metallic (702) over Brazil Brown leather (273). Power is provided by a 5.0-liter M117 V8 paired to a four-speed automatic transmission. Features include a power sliding sunroof, dual power memory front seats, a power-adjustable heated rear bench and the optional driver’s side airbag. Recent service in October 2021 includes replacement of the valve cover gaskets and oil cam plugs. This flagship W126 shows just 44,832 miles on the odometer - 150 of which have been added by the seller - and is being offered by the seller with both original keys, factory literature, a stamped service booklet, original window stickers and data plate, an original first-aid kit, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Tennessee title.
Bodywork is finished in Smoke Silver Metallic (702) with contrasting dark grey lower cladding. This 500SEL is equipped with a sliding steel sunroof and European style sealed beam headlights. The vehicle shows no signs of prior bodywork and the Smoke Silver finish is believed to be original. The rear glass shows no signs of delamination and brightwork remains in excellent condition. The seller recently had the car thoroughly inspected and no signs of any corrosion were found. Additional photos in the gallery below demonstrate the condition of the body and paintwork.
Factory 14” Bundt alloy wheels are wrapped in Goodyear tires that measure 205/70 all around. 500SEL’s came equipped with disc brakes on all four corners. The original full size spare, mounted on its matching Michelin tire, can be found stored in the trunk.
The interior is trimmed in Brazil Brown leather (273) hides with color-matched carpets, door cards, center console, and dash. Burl walnut veneers accent the doors, dash, and center console. Interior conveniences include central locking, automatic climate control, the original Becker Grand Prix radio, and cruise control. Both front and rear seats are heated and power adjustable.
The airbag steering wheel frames a 160-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer. Instruments include an analog clock, fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and a digital exterior temperature read out. The analog odometer indicates 44,832 miles.
The 5.0-liter M117 V8 was rated at 237 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque when new. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Recent service in October 2021 includes replacement of the valve cover gaskets and oil cam plugs along with a recent oil and filter change.
The Carfax report shows linear mileage updates and no accidents or damage since new. Having traveled just 44k miles in its 36-year life, this 500SEL is presented with both keys, a stamped service booklet, factory literature, a clean Tennessee title, as well as the original data plate and window sticker.
Even 40 some years after its introduction, the W126 S-Class continues to impress. When many people think of “Mercedes”, they think of this car. 500SELs, while popular in Europe, remain a rare sight on U.S. roads. Classically handsome good looks, a torquey V8, and just the right amount of power features make for a winning combination -- which is why the W126 is still so popular. Few examples, however, are as box fresh as this one with its bright orange dials, crisp Smoke Silver paint, and unscathed brown hides. In 1985, this was the flagship dream Mercedes. Much like the 1980s, the W126 has never gone out of style and this prime example is no exception.
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9 Comments
This vehicle was sold post auction.
My contact info: [email protected]
I take it we didn't get to the reserve price? Seller, please contact me. Thanks
$17,500 bid placed by @Alt767Gelt
$16,750 bid placed by @Margauche
$16,500 bid placed by @Alt767Gelt
$16,000 bid placed by @Tarverten
$15,250 bid placed by @Jaxican
$15,000 bid placed by @Tarverten
$14,250 bid placed by @Jaxican
$14,000 bid placed by @Tarverten
$12,000 bid placed by @MB5683
Undercarriage photos have been added the the gallery.
@MBstyle Everything works as it should, including rear defrost and the rear reclining seats. No leaks at all. I had the car inspected, and my mechanic could only find a very small leak on the valve cover gaskets, and he replaced the gaskets.
$10,000 bid placed by @Margauche
$7,500 bid placed by @MB5683
@CCCC DEAR VALUE SELLER, can you confirm that all electr.extras are working as it should be? Any leaks at gear, engine or rear axle and differential? Wonderful time capsule . Well taken care in any points…
My daughter loved my 85 300 SD TD as a child, Divorce and distance separated us over the years, would love to hand her the keys and drive it out to her, she always felt safe in the W126 chassis, I’d love for her to have this car.
$5,250 bid placed by @Steveadore
$5,000 bid placed by @Margauche
$2,750 bid placed by @Eclecticollector
$2,500 bid placed by @MB8605
Wow, that interior is just stunning. Beautiful car all around. Is the Bruce Hornsby tape included? lol
$2,250 bid placed by @Alt767Gelt
$2,000 bid placed by @MB8605
$1,250 bid placed by @Sgtbueno
This is cleannnn! Gorgeous example
$1,000 bid placed by @MB8605