Single-Family-Owned 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL

Description

The 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL was part of the company’s W116 series, the first generation of the formidable S-Class, a line of full-size sedans that set new standards for automotive safety and luxury. These 450 SE and long-wheelbase 450 SEL models, offered from 1973 until 1980, have been called the perfect marriage of luxury and logic.

The 450 SEL featured an extended four-inch longer wheelbase, providing extra legroom for rear passengers, and came equipped with advanced features for its time, such as power windows, central locking, and climate control. It was powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine, rated at 180 horsepower, known for its smooth performance and legendary longevity. The V8 was backed by Mercedes’ new three-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission.

The British magazine AutoCar (4 May 1974) remarked, “One seldom expects light and responsive handling in a car of this size, yet this is an area where the 450 SEL truly excels. Although very stable in a straight line, the model feels beautifully balanced when cornered hard.” They were so impressed they named the 450 SEL winner of their 1973 Car of the Year award.

Highlights

• Winner of AutoCar magazine’s 1973 Car of the Year award

• European Car of the Year for 1974

• Finished in Medium Red (Mittelrot) (516)

• Bamboo leather (204) interior

• 4.5-liter M117 SOHC V8

• Three-speed automatic transmission

Features

• Factory options include:

  • 410 – Sliding roof, electrically operated

  • 430 – Headrest in the rear, left and right

  • 440 – Tempomat (cruise control)

  • 451 – Tachometer

  • 461 – Instrument with miles indicator and English legend

  • 491 – U.S. version

  • 518 – Becker radio Mexico cassette full stereo (AM/FM, USA)

  • 524 – Paintwork - preservation

  • 531 – Automatic antenna

  • 575 – Front folding armrest and right front seat with seat height adjustment

  • 581 – Automatic climate control

  • 592 – Heat-insulating glass, all-around, heated rear window pane, band filter

  • 639 – Elimination of first-aid box and warning triangle

  • 640 – 15-hole light alloy rims

Known Imperfections

• The foam on the underside of the engine hood is degrading

• Leather seats are showing signs of wear

• Air conditioning is inoperable

Included

• Keys

Ownership History

The consignor states, “This vehicle was imported by my grandfather, who was a professor of chemistry, and has been in my family since new. The Mercedes has been stored in a garage since new. The only owners have been my grandfather and myself.”