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 that time."

- This 1988 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL from the W126 era stands out as a remarkable specimen of luxury and performance finished in Almandinerot.

- Beneath its hood lies the renowned 5. 5L M117 V8 power plant, delivering 279bhp to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.

- Rare Zender bodystyling fitted from new which included the chrome wheel arches. The lower front and rear aprons and side skirts give the car a more aggressive stance.

- 17” AMG Aero Alloys fitted in the early 90s are unmarked. Unused spare AMG Wheel in boot well.

- An original UK-supplied vehicle with only three owners. 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.

- 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 £3, 000 receipt for a new gearbox.

- A £44000 sales invoice from 1990 is present along with a leather pouch containing all booklets. The factory fitted NEC telephone booklets are also included.

- 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.

- This 560SEL has an extensive list of options, including the ultra-rare individually adjustable electric reclining seats, front and rear, Code 224.

- The specification includes cruise control, air conditioning, a Becker Mexico radio, NEC telephone, electric blind, electric tilt/ slide sunroof, electric windows, headlamp washers, heated seats front and rear.

- The car was overhauled in 2022.
- New spark plugs, ignition coil. 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.
- There are new Michelin tyres all round.
- Rear Self Levelling Suspension pipes replaced and refreshed with new oil.
- AC Conversion Kit installed. Air conditioning blows ice cold.

A unique and custom-built Mercedes W126, once the flagship model, is in exceptional condition for its 36 years. Its extensive list of options makes it stand out among SEL models, offering features rarely seen on others. In just four years, it will qualify for the Historic Vehicle Register, exempting it from MOT, tax, congestion charges, and low-emission zone restrictions. The vehicle comes with a comprehensive collection of documentation and service history.

The car will return to it's original registration. Please get in touch for further enquiries. Complete history file with a stamped service book. All manuals present in original matching leather pouch. Receipts and invoices dating back to when the car was new.