Highlights

Purchased new by a British diplomat at the British Embassy
Very high specification equivalent to £121,000 purchase price today
Comprehensive Mercedes service history
Luxury specification including tinted double glazed windows and privacy curtains
Current MOT to August 2026

The Appeal

The W140 is the last of the firm’s engineering-led models, which likely explains why its development went hugely over budget. We can be glad of that though, because it delivered one of the finest executive saloons of the last 30 years.

It may also explain why this Smoke Silver metallic 400SE cost the equivalent of £121,000 when new. It has interesting provenance because it was ordered new, with some interesting options, by a diplomat with one of the British Embassies. Extra features include custom-made headrest cushions and privacy curtains for all four windows.

The history file shows that in the intervening 31 years it has been looked after very well. That likely explains how well it presents in photos, the paintwork, bodywork and interior looking much younger than their age. This is a car that could easily be pressed into personal or professional daily duties.

The car comes to market with current MOT valid to August 2026. The seller describes it as “totally original and immaculate. The underside is spotless.”

History and Paperwork

First registered 24th February 1993
Originally purchased by a British diplomat at the British Embassy we are told
Five registered keepers
Original bill of sale showing the £56,000 purchase price is included
Comprehensive Mercedes service history documenting the 94,000 miles
MOT valid to 5th August 2026 with advisories to note
Comes with two Mercedes-branded umbrellas
2 keys
Factory handbooks
V5C
Large history file including old tax discs and MOTs

The Condition

Smart Smoke Silver metallic paintwork with ‘Sacco Planks’ in complementary finish
Paintwork presents wel with a few minor marks and touched in areas to note
Bodywork appears in very good order as can be checked in photos
The vendor states the underside is spotless
No structural advisories for underside on current MOT
Factory ‘Gullideckel’ alloys in good condition
One alloy wheel reported to have some anodising issues
Vendor states that all four 235/60 ZR tyres are in good condition
Full beige leather interior presents in very good condition
Walnut dashboard appears well preserved
Features include electric tilt glass sunroof, climate control, and electric adjustable seats
Fitted with Pioneer stereo sound system
Luxury specification includes tinted double glazed windows and privacy curtains
Custom head cushions add to the comfort
Space wheel included as shown
Fitted with factory branded over mats to well kept carpets

The Mechanics

4,196cc M119 V8 engine
4spd 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission
The vendor reports the engine is very healthy and produces a pleasing V8 sound
Said to drive beautifully with good performance
Large history file of regular maintenance by main dealers and specialists
Advisories to note on current MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.