In many ways, the Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 was the answer to a question that no-one at the time was asking. And yet, 45 years later, it is as historically significant as the Porsche 356 or Pontiac GTO. What it was was a fairly ubiquitous Mercedes W109 sedan with a monstrous 6.3 litre motor transplanted from the dignitary-class 600 Limousine. What it did was pave the way for future performance sedans like the BMW M5, Audi S8, and its own descendants in the AMG S63 and S65; all big luxurious saloon cars that are equally at home storming the autobahn or lapping the Nürburgring. The 6.3 was a two-ton car capable of 0-60 times around six seconds and a top speed around 150 MPH. It was the first German Q-Ship. Prices of 300SEL 6.3s have remained steady since a significant leap just prior to the recession. No. 1 cars can fetch as much as $60K, while there are many tired examples out there for under $20K. This example looks to be a solid No. 3 and with some tweaking could be brought to No. 2 fairly easily. It underwent a fair amount of restoration 20 years ago and it’s once again showing some age, but it’s more than presentable. More importantly, everything including the air suspension and mechanical fuel injection, are in excellent working order. The body and chassis appear to be completely rust free. Inside, all controls and instruments—including the original Becker Europa—work. It’s being offered by its fifth documented owner, and though it has been on the market for several months, a fresh price drop should attract new buyers. Find it here on Hemmings in Clinton Township MI for a negotiable $30,000.
