1986 Mercedes Benz 420SEL
 
“… it was the W126 S-Class… that saw this model become a top-tier luxury good, a true flagship, and a lasting symbol of affluence throughout the 1980s.” –Hagerty
 
The much-heralded W126 Mercedes S-class chassis is well represented in this light blue metallic-over-gray-leather example, showing the light patina expected in a car with fewer than 4,000 miles per year of largely highway use. Much of the original owner's mileage was accumulated on trips to and from Arizona, and the absence of rust (Note: the discoloration evident on the front-passenger door jamb photo is not rust) and overall tidiness of the undercarriage bears witness to that. In the video (available on our main site GarageKeptMotors.com, along with more than 150 still photos), you can hear the purr of the 4.2-liter V8, as well as see how well kept the engine bay—and indeed, the entire car—appears. (By the way, the “AMG” deck badge was a prior owner's choice and is easily removed.)
 
The current owner's records include important recent services including new motor mounts (101k miles); major maintenance with new fuel injectors, distributor, main engine seal, and rebuilding air pump and transmission (102k miles): new fuel distributor (108k miles); new brake pads and rotors, and transmission fluid changed (121k miles). Investment in care like this can keep a Mercedes vehicle of this vintage on the road for many, many years to come.
 
The original option list for the car included rear cigar (apparently those who rode back there in the SEL cars were big shots) lighters for both the left and right-side passengers, heated rear window, power front seats (both sides with the Mercedes-patented door-mounted seat controls), power sunroof, rear audio system (in case those big shots wanted to rock out) with automatic antenna, tinted glass all around, headlight washing system, and 15-hole alloy wheels. The standard authentic wood trim throughout the car remains in lovely condition. A Pioneer audio head unit is currently in place, but the car's original audio unit is also included, as are a full set of manuals and delivery literature.
 
Across-the-board, 1980s German cars are experiencing strong demand. This W126 “lasting symbol of luxury” is one reason why. And you don't have to be a big shot to enjoy it. Be sure to check out all the photos and video on our main website: Garage Kept Motors. Call if interested or e-mail with any questions. Thank you for looking.