Description
Mercedes 560SEL | 1987
Highlights:
– Exceptionally low verified mileage: just over 40,000 km
– Factory-original paint and preserved blue leather interior
– Powerful 5.6L V8 engine with smooth automatic transmission
The seller offers for sale this stately 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL, the flagship model of the W126 S-Class series. Fitted with a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine and smooth-shifting automatic transmission, this long-wheelbase limousine epitomizes 1980s Mercedes luxury and engineering excellence. Originally delivered new in Japan, the car was imported into the Netherlands in 2009 with official documentation confirming the mileage of just 40,100 kilometers. From 2009 to 2017, the vehicle remained in the stock of the importer, untouched and stored indoors. The current owner has been the first registered private owner in the Netherlands since 2017.
This 560SEL is equipped with many of the period’s most desirable features, including factory air conditioning, power accessories, and elegant blue leather upholstery. The spacious rear seat benefits from the extended wheelbase of the SEL version, offering superior comfort for passengers. The car’s design reflects the peak of Mercedes-Benz build quality, with refined lines, a commanding stance, and understated chrome accents.
The vehicle is said to retain its original paintwork, further attesting to its well-preserved state.
Technically, the car is in a good condition. The indicators, lights, and mechanical functions are reported to work as intended. The car comes with valid Dutch registration and inspection.
The paint and bodywork are described as being in first-lacquer condition with no visual need for touch-ups.
The blue leather interior is in a beautiful condition, showing no notable wear or damage. It presents as intact and preserved in its original state.
The Mercedes-Benz 560SEL was the pinnacle of the W126 range, produced from 1979 to 1991. Introduced in the mid-1980s, the 560SEL served as the top-tier model for global markets outside North America. It was powered by the M117 5.6-litre V8 engine, capable of producing over 270 horsepower in European specification. This model was especially popular among diplomats, executives, and heads of state, thanks to its advanced safety, durability, and luxurious accommodations.
The W126 generation was the first S-Class to seriously integrate computer-aided design and wind tunnel testing. These advancements led to improved fuel economy, reduced noise, and enhanced aerodynamics. The SEL variant added 140 mm to the standard wheelbase, almost all of which benefited rear passengers—a hallmark of high-ranking executive transport.
Notably, the W126 was among the first production cars to be fitted with airbags and ABS brakes, setting new safety standards for the industry. Its timeless design, by Bruno Sacco, is still admired today for its balance of elegance and formality.
Classic car enthusiasts value the 560SEL for its build quality, road presence, and reliability. Surviving examples with verified low mileage and original features, like this one, are becoming increasingly rare.
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 broken parts.
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 South Holland province, the 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.
