The Mercedes S-Class is an iconic model from automotive history all about introducing revolutionary technology and providing the upmost in comfort. The W126 generation of this classy vehicle was perhaps the most successful in the nameplate’s history, selling for well over a decade.
And one can see why. This particular model, finished in a great specification presents in great shape and looks very subtle yet important when cruising along the road.
Having spent a lot of time garaged in recent years and having been through a lot of work over the past year, it is in great mechanical health. Indeed, the owner claims it runs and starts easily with no faults evident whilst driving.
The History and Paperwork
First registered in 1988
Long-term single owner
Odometer shows just 130,000km – 81,000 miles
Purchased by the current, second owner in February 2023
Run very little this year due to health complications
Currently registered as a classic car
Lots of work done in recent months
Many invoices from work
Government technical inspection valid until June 2028
FFVE certificate
Original owner’s manuals with the car
The Interior
Excellent condition upholstery
All the gadgets work perfectly
Sizeable interior cabin, true S-Class style
In true S-Class tradition, the main attraction of this 1988 Mercedes 560 SEL is the interior. Indeed, it is a large and spacious cabin fitted with comfortable leather seats with plenty of room to relax. As many describe it, this is certainly like jumping aboard a first class flight every time one gets in the car.
Following on from said analogy, the car features numerous tech options. Electric windows and seats are obviously present as is the electrically operated rear screen. The onboard phone may no longer be in service, but the owner does point out that it is as functional as it can be in today’s modern age. In fact, everything inside the car reportedly works well.
Furthermore, the condition throughout is evidently very good. The black leather seat upholstery shows very few marks whilst the door cards may show some light cracking but nothing to worry about. Wood trim throughout the car appears to be in fabulous condition and the steering wheel is in very good shape. The dashboard shows no signs of sun damage and all the onboard controls show very little wear.
The Exterior
Very good overall condition
Nice specification
V126 land yacht looks impressive on the road
In SEL form, the 126 generation of Mercedes luxury saloons was an impressively large behemoth. Indeed, the extended wheelbase makes for a grandiose land yacht that sticks out on the road.
This particular model is finished in a very timeless specification. A two-tone paintjob of black and silver was a traditional combination for the car whilst several chrome accents such as the grille, wheel arch surrounds and window lining give a sense of importance. Unfortunately, the paint work does show some scraping on the corners. But the whole thing presents in good overall condition.
The wheels do show some marks though they are difficult to notice. They are fitted with a matching set of Michelin Energy tyres.
Underneath, the are some areas of corrosion, noticeably towards the rear axle. However, this does not appear to be structural and looks to be mostly on the surface. The rest of the chassis is impressively clean.
The Mechanics
5.6-litre V8, 279hp
Lots of work done recently
Runs well with no issues
Powering this cruise ship of a car is a 5.6-litre V8 burbling from under the bonnet. Putting 279hp into the road, it is perfect for pushing this car on long journeys. The eight-cylinder engine is fitted to a four-speed automatic gearbox, as with every 560SEL.
After a failed technical inspection earlier in the year, the car underwent a lot of work. Indeed, several parts have been replaced for the inspection including discs and pads all-round as well as suspension arms and steering rods. However, a number of further fixes have been done recently. For example, the main and accessory belts have all been changed.
As a result, the car is said to run very well and drives without issue. It currently has a valid MOT until August 2028, meaning the new owner will have plenty of trouble-free motoring ahead of them.
Summary
A classy car, this 1988 Mercedes 260SEL presents in good overall condition and recently received a lot of work. Having run seldomly in the past decade, it is very healthy mechanically and is ready to provide countless miles of luxury cruising to its new owners.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1988 Mercedes 560 SEL
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