Description
Mercedes-Benz 380SE | 1983
Highlights:
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- 3.8-litre V8 engine with automatic transmission
- Verified mileage of 272,200 km
- Long-term Dutch ownership with 12 years of specialist maintenance records
- Pullman interior with walnut trim in very good condition
- Imported from Switzerland in 2003, stored indoors
The seller offers for sale a 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380SE, part of the W126 S-Class generation, recognised for its blend of comfort, solidity, and understated elegance. This example is powered by a 3824 cc V8 petrol engine coupled to an automatic gearbox, a combination that prioritises smooth, relaxed cruising. With a verified mileage of 272,200 km, the car reflects sustained use but has been carefully maintained. Over the past 12 years of ownership, the seller has entrusted all servicing and repairs to specialists, ensuring technical consistency. Supporting invoices are available, documenting work over this period. The car was imported from Switzerland in 2003 and has since been stored indoors. Recent maintenance includes a new viscous coupling and a new exhaust system. Air conditioning is functional, and the car sits on four Michelin tyres in good condition. A valid inspection confirms roadworthiness, and all associated paperwork is present.
The condition is reported as very good overall. The bodywork is described as straight with attractive paint and no rust issues. Minor imperfections are noted, such as crackling in the paint of the right front door, some stone chipping on the bonnet and roof, and traces of ageing in certain areas, but the overall finish is considered strong. The interior, finished in Pullman trim with walnut wood details, is in very good condition, with minor sun-related discolouration and marks on the driver’s seat. The dashboard shows light cracking from sun exposure, though the woodwork remains intact. Mechanically, the car is rated as very good: it starts reliably and the gearbox shifts smoothly, albeit with some noises acknowledged. No accident history or rust has been reported. The seller notes minor oil sweating at the cylinder head gasket and rear crankshaft seal, factors that do not currently prevent its usability but may be relevant for long-term maintenance planning. The original alloy “manhole cover” wheels have been recently repainted, presenting cleanly. Collectively, the car combines an honest, well-kept mechanical base with presentable cosmetics, suited for continued enjoyment.
The Mercedes-Benz 380SE belongs to the W126 generation of the S-Class, introduced in 1979 and produced through to the early 1990s. Designed under Bruno Sacco, the W126 prioritised aerodynamics, safety, and efficiency compared to its W116 predecessor, making it a landmark model in Mercedes-Benz’s flagship lineage. The 380SE represented one of the V8 options, offering smooth power delivery within a package aimed at long-distance comfort rather than outright performance. With advanced safety features for its time, including crumple zones and anti-lock brakes (on later models), the W126 helped define expectations of the modern luxury sedan. Interiors were crafted with durable materials, such as the Pullman cloth trim seen here, and emphasised ergonomics and refinement. The W126 became a symbol of stability and prestige in the 1980s, often favoured by statesmen, executives, and enthusiasts of understated luxury. Today, the model is valued both for its historical significance and for its reputation for robust engineering. Well-maintained examples, such as this 380SE with complete service documentation, continue to be attractive for collectors and classic Mercedes enthusiasts alike.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or brokenparts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North Brabant, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
