1988 Mercedes W126 560 SEL Zender

In its 1987 issue, the motoring magazine "Auto Motor und Sport" described the 560 SEL as "undoubtedly the largest, fastest, and most well-appointed passenger car produced by Daimler-Benz" at the time.

This 1988 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL is finished in Almandine Red Metallic (512U). An original UK-supplied vehicle with three keepers and an odometer showing 101, 000 miles from new. It has an exceptionally high specification which is unlikely to be found on any other W126 SEL. It is coming with a fully documented service file with a plethora of receipts, letters and invoices from new.

• It was first commissioned for the Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Macclesfield, then sold by the Macclesfield Garages to the late TV personality and impressionist Joe Longthorne MBE, who used it extensively for his nationwide tours. In 2001, after the vehicle had been transferred to Mr. Longthorne’s tour manager, it was dry stored in a private garage and would not see daylight for the next 21 years.

• Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 5. 5-litre fuel-injected V8, delivering around 279PS to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.

• A Zender bodystyling package was fitted from new with lower front and rare aprons, side skirts and chrome arches. This also included sport springs which gives the car an imposing stance.

• This 560SEL has an extensive options list including code 224, individually reclining electric front and rear seats.

• Other equipment includes cruise control, air conditioning, a Becker Mexico radio, limited slip differential, NEC telephone, electric blind, electric tilt/ slide sunroof, electric windows, headlamp washers, heated seats front and rear.

• A set of 17” AMG Aero alloy wheels were fitted in the early 90s and there is matching AMG alloy in the boot well.

• Before going into hibernation, the car had been meticulously maintained by main dealerships, with a thorough service history file documenting all expenses. This includes a receipt for a new gearbox and exhaust system.

• Included is the original £44, 000 sales invoice from 1990, accompanied by typewritten correspondence from the supplying dealer. A luxurious maroon leather pouch houses the service book, owner’s manuals, and various other booklets, including one dedicated to the NEC telephone.

• The car was featured on the front cover of the Classic Car Magazine (October 24 issue) and is well-recognised within the Mercedes-Benz Club.

• An extensive overhaul was carried out in 2022 after being off road for 20 years.

- New fuel tank and fuel pump fitted - fuel lines replaced at the same time.
- Brake calipers have been rebuilt with new brake pads and discs.
- New oil cooler pipe fitted and any corroded pipes replaced.
- New spark plugs, injectors and ignition coil fitted.
- There are new Michelin tyres all round.
- Rear self-levelling suspension pipes have been replaced.
- AC conversion kit installed. Air conditioning blows ice cold.

This is a chance to own a rare and meticulously maintained Mercedes W126, the former flagship model of its time. Boasting an extensive array of options, this 560SEL distinguishes itself among other SEL variants with features seldom found on similar vehicles. In just four years, it will qualify for the Historic Vehicle Register, granting exemption from MOT, road tax, congestion charges, and low-emission zone restrictions. Accompanied by a thorough collection of documentation and a complete service history, this exceptional vehicle is truly one of a kind.

The private registration will be removed before the sale. For further inquiries, please get in touch. Viewings are available by appointment only.