1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3

Description

Mercedes-Benz made automotive history with the introduction of the 300 SEL 6.3 sedan in 1968, pioneering a new class of high-performance sedans that could rival contemporary sports cars like Ferraris and Porsches. Lead engineer Erich Waxenberger spearheaded the project in secret, blending the luxurious attributes of the 300 SEL grand touring sedan with the potent 6.3-liter V8 engine and transmission from the prestigious 600 “Grosser.” The result was a conservatively styled sedan that belied its extraordinary performance capabilities. Beneath its unassuming exterior, this Mercedes boasted cutting-edge engineering features such as air suspension with automatic level control, a four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, dual-circuit ventilated power disc brakes on all four wheels, air conditioning, power windows, and a host of other amenities. Despite its outward resemblance to other Mercedes-Benz models, it was under the hood and in its trunk badging where the true essence of the 6.3 mystique lay. 

Highlights 

• Recently featured as the cover story for the May/June edition of the Mercedes-Benz Club of America The Star magazine  

• A highly original example is believed to be displaying just over 74,000 original miles at the time of listing 

• Powered by the legendary 6.3-liter “M100” V8 engine with mechanical eight-plunger fuel injection pump, rated at 250 net horsepower at 4,000 rpm 

• Finished in Dark Olive (291) with color-keyed wheel covers 

• Black Leather (241) interior Macassar Ebony wood trim 

• Gold pinstriping 

• A well-optioned example with a power sunroof and air conditioning  

• Retaining its original Becker Europa Stereo radio with automatic antenna 

• Reported service work under current ownership, including but not limited to: 

  • Fuel pump rebuild performed by mechanical fuel injection specialist Jerry Fairchild Industries  

  • The exhaust manifolds were removed and repainted 

  • Adjusted the valves 

  • Replaced numerous hoses and gaskets in addition to the spark plugs 

  • Replacing the rear shocks  

  • Rebuilt gear selector with new bushings 

  • Rebuilt the steering box, replaced the steering coupling and the steering damper, welded a crack in the steering bolt tube, and adjusted the steering gear  

  • Replaced rear disc rotors, brake pad set, rebuilt both rear calipers, lubricated the caliper guides, bled and flushed the brake fluid 

  • Change the engine and transmission oil and filter 

Features 

• Floor-shifted automatic transmission  

• Electric tachometer  

• Central locking system   

• Anti-dive control on the rear axle   

• Heat-insulating glass with an electric rear window defroster  

• Power windows 

• Front seatback nets  

• Electric clock  

• Anatomically contoured seats with adjustable height, backrest, and headrests  

• Foldable armrest between the front and rear seats 

• Padded dashboard and sun visors 

• Pivoting vent windows 

• Panoramic safety glass windows 

• Review mirror adjustable to anti-glare position   

• Locking glove compartment  

• Door-mounted map pockets 

Known Imperfections 

• Cracked steering wheel 

• Minor rust is noted in two small areas of the rear fenders on the edge of the body, as shown in the listing photos, in addition to the front rocker closing panels

• The consignor reports that the air suspension will drop when parked for extended periods due to age but still functions and will rise after starting 

• Inoperable power sunroof 

Included 

• Owner's manual 

Ownership History 

As relayed by the current owner, this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 was owned by a cardiothoracic surgeon in Grand Rapids, Michigan since May 1985. The previous owner acquired the car from them, and it remained in his private collection of various other 6.3s in Carmel, California, until it was purchased by the current owner in 2022. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. 

Contact: Blake Wingrove  Phone: 616.822.8589  email: bwingrove@hagerty.com