Highlights

In remarkable, time-warp condition
Rare manual transmission
All original interior
Only two owners from brand new, one owning from 1974 til 2021
Low mileage example

The Appeal

The luxury flagship, the W116, was the first Benz model to ever be graced with the ‘S’ designation, making this the first S-Class model, standing for Sonderklasse or ‘Special Class’. The top-of-its-class 350 is powered with a lovely 3.5-litre V8 engine, making this the most desirable model of its siblings.

This particular example stayed with its original owner from 1974 all the way up until 2021, talk about commitment! The vehicle has been clearly lovingly cared for with seemingly no regard for expense, it remains in beautiful condition with only a respray completed a long time ago to keep the paint work up to scratch. A truly stunning example, inside and out!

The History and Paperwork

Sold brand new in May of 1974 by R.A.V.I in Italy
The original owner kept the vehicle from 1974 until 2021
Original 79,831 kilometres
Exceptionally maintained throughout its life
Respray undergone “a long time ago”, however it remains as beautiful as can be
Kept in heated storage to retain the rust-free chassis
Recently serviced
Mercedes-Benz service manual not present
Two sets of original keys present

The Interior

Stunning and all original
Black leather seats in gorgeous condition with very gentle patina
Headlining in excellent form with no rips or tears
Interior plastics all original and very well maintained
Wooden veneer dash panel in gorgeous condition
Steering wheel beautifully kept
Centre console controls functional and easily readable
Gauge cluster free from any damage and completely functional with no warning lights
Door cards all free from damage
Carpets are all original and are plush throughout
Hints of brightwork all brilliantly kept
Warning triangle present in the boot

The Exterior

All original body panels with only some gentle signs of age
Brightwork all in lovely condition, some scuffs on the front window surround and the passenger side A-pillar trim
Paintwork in excellent condition, small paint chips touched in on the passenger side C-pillar
Wheels all original and in lovely shape, brightwork is excellent and the painted centres just have a couple of small scratches
Headlights and tail lights all functional and free from any damage or fading
Bumpers remain in lovely shape with excellent brightwork
Panel gaps all of factory fitment
All body panels seemingly free from any rust or corrosion
Vehicle underside in outstanding condition
Engine bay very well presented

The Mechanics

3.5-Litre V8 engine
197bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque
0-60mph in 8.7 seconds
Bosch D-Jetronic injection
Rear wheel drive configuration
Four speed manual transmission
Recently serviced, including fluids and oils, spark plugs, new filters
New tyres recently fitted
In excellent mechanical condition with no unwelcome noises or clunks under load

Summary

It’s always a pleasure to see an original car when one pops up, especially when they’ve been lovingly cared for for so many years. The love and dedication has surely paid off here, the car remains in gorgeous condition throughout with excellent mechanical workings.

The very gentle hints of patina make this so much more charming than any restored competitor, it adds life and soul, it showcases that it hasn’t been hidden from the world. Even though that may not be the case now that it’s away in heated storage! This would be a stunning addition to any Benz enthusiasts collection, a real head turner and conversation starter.

A fee of circa €200 is due from buyer for exportation costs or new registration.

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.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.

Shipping and transfer

Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].