Description
Mercedes-Benz 380SE | 1981
Highlights:
- 3.8 Litre V8 petrol engine with automatic transmission
- Technically and optically in good condition
- Valid technical inspection certificate
The seller offers for sale a 1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SE, part of the W126 S-Class range. This petrol-powered sedan is fitted with the 3.8-litre V8 engine, paired to an automatic transmission. According to the seller, the car has remained in Spain since new and has only had two owners throughout its life. It was regularly used and passed inspections consistently, with a recent tune-up carried out.
The Mercedes-Benz 380SE belongs to the W126 generation, widely regarded as one of the most durable and iconic luxury sedans of its era. Introduced in 1979, the W126 was a major step forward in terms of aerodynamics, safety, and refinement compared to its predecessor, the W116. The design by Bruno Sacco gave the car a more modern, elongated profile, which helped it remain visually relevant well into the 1990s. The model was fitted with features such as improved crumple zones, advanced climate control, and optional airbag systems, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s focus on innovation.
The 380SE specifically carried the smaller-displacement V8 engine, offering smoother performance than the six-cylinder variants while maintaining better efficiency than the larger 500SE and 560SE versions. Cars of this type were often favored by professionals and government officials across Europe, reflecting their balance between prestige and practicality. The W126 also enjoyed a strong reputation for durability, with many examples running for several decades across the world. This particular car’s Spanish provenance adds interest, as cars from dry climates typically benefit from reduced corrosion compared to northern European examples. The fact that it has only had two owners and has always been garaged adds further weight to its appeal. With a body style that defines the era’s executive sedans, a well-preserved underbody, and an interior that remains complete, this 380SE presents itself as a usable classic with strong heritage and understated elegance.
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 Madrid region, Spain.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Spanish 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.
